Layover

In transportation, a layover or lay over is some form of a break between trips of parts of a single trip [http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/layover] . Depending on the mode of transportation, its meaning may vary]

In mass transit

A layover for a mass transit line refers to the break the driver or the vehicle is given at the end of a trip before it starts operating its reverse route, or if the route is circular, before beginning its next trip. The layover has several benefits. These include [ [http://www.sacrt.com/transitglossary.stm#L Transit Glossary - Sacramento Regional Transit ] ] :
*If the service has arrived at the final point is behind its scheduled time, this allows for make-up time prior to starting the next trip, and therefore, better schedule adherence on the route.
*Allows for the operator of the vehicle to have a break without disrupting the service. If a shift change is necessary, this also can be done here without disrupting the service.
*In some cases, may allow for the vehicle being used to undergo a safety inspection.

The typical layover for a public bus line may be:
*A bus stop along the street in a location where the vehicle's presence will not be disruptive to the flow of traffic.
*An apartment complex or other similar development.
*A mall or shopping center parking lot or similar facility.
*A well-known landmark, such as a hospital, college or university, or a government facility.
*A commuter rail station or a park-and-ride lot.

Sometimes, such a location may serve as a layover for more than one bus line. Many cities have specified locations, known as "hubs" or bus stations, which serve as a layover point for several routes. In many cases, the layover point for one route may simply be an intermediate stop for another, where riders can transfer.

In long-distance travel

A layover in long-distance travel by plane, train, or inter-city bus can refer to a break that a passenger must take between vehicles in a multi-vehicle trip. It refers to the time that is spent at a terminal after departing one vehicle and waiting to board the next. Many inter-city and international travelers face layovers during their journeys.

As in mass transit, the term layover is also applicable in long-distance travel for breaks taken by operators. A vehicle is said to be laying over after it finishes its route and is waiting prior to a return trip, or else it is taking a break to change crews or for the crew to rest.

ee also

*Bus terminus
*Transportation hub

References

[http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-layover.htm What is a layover?]