Coaches a blockhead on operations (5)

I believe the answer is:

buses

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'coaches' is the definition.
('bus' can be a synonym of 'coach')

'a blockhead on operations' is the wordplay.
'a blockhead' becomes 'b' (head letter of 'block').
'on operations' becomes 'uses' (I can't explain this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'b'+'uses'='BUSES'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for buses that I've seen before include "Passenger vehicles" , "Public service vehicles" , "Public transport vehicles" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.