Celebrating Four Decades of Excellence: D&F Travel’s Legacy in Western New YorkFor 40 years, D&F Travel Inc. has stood as a cornerstone of the transportation and tourism industry in Western New York. Founded in 1985 by Rick Swanson in the city of Dunkirk, the company has flourished into a trusted provider of reliable motor coach services and enriching tour experiences across the United States and Canada. Throughout its journey, D&F Travel has become synonymous with quality, community engagement, and a deep commitment to delivering memorable travel adventures.
The Swanson family’s dedication to the travel industry spans over six decades, and this legacy is now poised to continue through the leadership of Rick Swanson’s son, Richard (RJ) Swanson. RJ has been a vital part of the company for the past ten years, serving as a dispatcher and helping to maintain seamless operations. His upcoming elevated role within the company marks the transition to a fourth generation of Swanson stewardship, underscoring the family’s long-standing bond with both the business and the community it serves.
This continuity not only reflects a rich heritage but also provides stability and a personal touch that many travelers and partners value deeply. The family’s enduring presence ensures that D&F Travel remains grounded in its core values while adapting to the evolving needs of today’s travelers.
Beth Swanson, Rick’s sister and D&F Travel’s Vice President, brings over 30 years of experience in crafting and managing group travel packages. Her work has shaped the company’s ability to offer diverse itineraries catering to various interests and age groups. From scenic road trips to iconic national parks like Glacier, the Redwoods, the Grand Canyon, Utah’s Mighty Five, and Yellowstone, D&F Travel’s tours combine natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure.
The company’s tailored travel solutions ensure that every journey feels personal and accessible, making road travel an enjoyable and immersive way to explore North America’s vast and varied landscapes.
D&F Travel has made considerable investments to modernize its fleet, reinforcing its commitment to passenger comfort and safety. The acquisition of two brand-new 2025 MCI J-4500 motor coaches, each accommodating 56 passengers, signals a forward-looking approach to meeting growing demand. Additional vehicles are expected to join the fleet by the end of the year.
Today, D&F operates a fleet of 14 full-sized coaches, all equipped with essential amenities such as onboard restrooms, entertainment systems, USB charging ports, and power outlets to enhance traveler convenience. The company’s team includes 19 professional motor coach operators certified under rigorous U.S. Department of Transportation safety standards, ensuring that every journey adheres to strict safety and quality protocols.
Marking its 40th anniversary, D&F Travel is launching a new loyalty program aimed at rewarding frequent passengers. This program, along with discounted gift certificates available online, offers travelers added value and encourages continued engagement with the company’s services.
In a demonstration of its commitment to social responsibility, D&F Travel will partner with FeedMore Western New York starting this May. The collaboration focuses on collecting nonperishable food items at the company’s office in Amherst, supporting local efforts to combat food insecurity and strengthen community welfare.
As D&F Travel celebrates four decades, it remains focused on balancing growth with the delivery of superior service. The company’s expanding fleet, experienced staff, and diverse tour offerings position it well for sustained success in the highly competitive tourism and transportation markets of Western New York and beyond.
By fostering strong relationships within the community, investing in state-of-the-art equipment, and providing thoughtfully curated travel experiences, D&F Travel exemplifies the enduring value of a family-owned business rooted in quality and social impact.
D&F Travel’s 40th anniversary not only celebrates its longevity but also highlights the company’s evolution into a community-centered organization that goes beyond transportation. With its rich family heritage, commitment to modernization, and extensive travel portfolio, D&F continues to be a trusted name in Western New York’s tourism landscape.
The company’s ongoing dedication to safety, customer satisfaction, and community partnership demonstrates how travel businesses can positively influence local economies and enrich lives through meaningful and memorable journeys. As D&F Travel moves forward, it remains committed to upholding these principles, ensuring a vibrant future for both the company and the communities it serves.Image: 2025 Niagara Frontier Publications.
