Perth-based transport group Stagecoach yesterday claimed to be a winner from the economic downturn in the United States by attracting more than one million passengers in just six months to its cut-price Megabus.com coach service.

Perth-based transport group Stagecoach yesterday claimed to be a winner from the economic downturn in the United States by attracting more than one million passengers in just six months to its cut-price Megabus.com coach service.

Sales at megabus.com in North America grew by 183% between May 1, 2008, and April 30, 2009, the company said, and it has now carried more than three million passengers since its launch in April 2006.

The company contrasted it with multi-billion-dollar losses for the global airline industry and a one-third fall in US car sales over the past year.

The company, which operates in the midwest and northeast of the United States is offering fares for as little as a dollar via its website.

Dale Moser, president and chief operator office of megabus.com in North America, said: "While the public is feeling the effects of the current US economy, megabus.com has fast become the perfect solution for those looking to stretch their travel dollar. The rapid rise to three million customers is proof of that."

It is welcome good news for Stagecoach, headed by Brian Souter, which last month warned its UK rail business could post a "significant loss" for the last financial year.

It will be announcing its results for the 12 months ended April 30 on June 24.