For a long time, travelers at the Mexico City International Airport (AICM) have faced a problem. They could use ride-sharing apps like Uber, DiDi, or InDrive to get to the airport, but not to leave. This was because government and airline rules allowed only authorized airport taxis to pick up passengers.
That situation is changing. The federal government has announced a new plan to create legal pickup zones for ride-sharing platforms. This is part of a solution to end conflicts between app drivers, airport taxis, and the authorities.
How Will the New Pickup System Work?
The new system will not allow Uber or DiDi to pick up passengers directly outside the main exits of Terminals 1 and 2. Instead, the government is creating a special waiting area for these vehicles.
This designated zone is located between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, about an eight-minute walk from both buildings. The space has covered seating and is watched over by security personnel.
The government plans to offer a free public-transport shuttle to take passengers directly from the terminals to the new ride-sharing pickup zone.
Why Are These Changes Happening?
There are two main reasons for this change. First, there has been tension between app drivers and traditional airport taxi drivers. The taxi drivers pay for federal concessions and have blocked airport roads to protest what they see as unfair competition. The government wants to establish order and reduce these conflicts.
Second, Mexico is preparing to host the FIFA World Cup. Millions of tourists will arrive at the airport, and the government needs to provide more transportation options. Officials want to solve this problem before the event begins on June 11.
What About the Current Rules?
Currently, app drivers can face fines from the National Guard for picking up passengers at the airport. The government says ride-sharing services do not have federal permission to operate inside the airport zone.
Uber has argued that it has a legal injunction, or amparo, that protects its drivers. However, the government clarifies that this court order only stops arbitrary arrests; it does not give the company a permit to operate at the airport.
The new plan is an attempt to solve this legal gray area by moving the pickups to a location where the apps can operate without breaking federal rules.
When Will This Start?
Officials have already started adapting the space for the new pickup zone. The government is currently in talks with ride-sharing companies like Uber, DiDi, and InDrive to finalize the details. The new pickup zones are likely to be completed before the FIFA World Cup begins.
President Claudia Sheinbaum has confirmed the strategy. She also mentioned that the government will review the high prices charged by concessionaire taxis to make them more fair for riders.
Travelers in other cities are calling for similar rules, especially at airports like Cancún and Tulum, where taxi drivers are notorious for overcharging.