Around two to three drivers are detained almost daily by members of the National Guard for providing Uber taxi services near the Mérida International Airport. Despite knowing that they are not allowed to offer taxi services, these drivers still go to the airport in search of passengers. Authorities impose a fine of 6,000 pesos and impound their vehicles, which are then sent to impound lots, resulting in an additional penalty of nearly 25,000 pesos.
In response to this situation, Uber drivers have requested that authorities regularize urban transportation services at the Mérida airport and allow them to operate there.
“We know that there are individuals and even private drivers who provide transportation services right at the airport entrance, and no one says anything to them. But for us, since we are already identified, they impose fines of up to 45,000 pesos when they catch us,” complained one Uber driver.
“We are simply trying to earn a little money to support our families. However, because we are not officially regulated, we are forced to park our cars on nearby streets and walk to the airport corridor to pick up passengers,” he added.
The Uber drivers also pointed out that their competitors charge higher fares, even though they have been providing the service for years. This discrepancy arises because the authorities refuse to recognize Uber, unlike in Cancún, where they have already done so.
Source: Reportur
