Is it possible to get public transit directions via the API?

[Tom]

I see Google Maps supports public transit directions in several cities. Is the same feature available via the API?

The docs don't list it as an option:

Travel Modes

When you calculate directions, you need to specify which transportation mode to use. The following travel modes are currently supported:

• TravelMode.DRIVING indicates standard driving directions using the road network.
• TravelMode.WALKING requests walking directions via pedestrian paths & sidewalks (where available).
• New! TravelMode.BICYCLING requests bicycling directions via bicycle paths & preferred streets (currently only available in the US).

Is it an omission or public transit is not accessible via the API? If the latter then is it planned?

[Rossko]

http://groups.google.com/group/google-maps-js-api-v3/search?group=google-maps-js-api-v3&q=public+transit&qt_g=Search+this+group

[MymsMan]

Not currently which is a pity.

It would probably require more changes to the API than simply just a new TravelMode since the transit directions require information about intended travel time.

Having travel time information would be good for the API since it would potentially allow predicted road congestion to be factored into route selection and duration calculations for driving routes.

I have no information when or if public transit direction will be available via the API,  Hopefully Google will announce something soon.

[MymsMan]

Add your star and comments to the feature request http://code.google.com/p/gmaps-api-issues/issues/detail?id=713