Los Angeles International Airport will become the largest in the country to allow passenger pick-ups by ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft following a final vote of approval this week by the Los Angeles City Council. Uber still has to apply for a permit under new rules and while no firm start date has been set, service could commence “in coming weeks.”
Earlier, the ride-sharing services were expected to start full operation at LAX in August, but that was pushed back after the city council got involved.
SNEAK PEEK! New Delta Sky Club at SFO (PHOTOS)
Once LAX officials finalize operating contracts with the companies, the pick-ups could begin within a matter of weeks. A ride from LAX to downtown that costs $50 in a licensed taxi is expected to run about $30 in an UberX or Lyft car — or more in periods of peak demand, according to the Los Angeles Times.
There was some uneasiness among city council members about the qualifications — or lack of qualifications — required of ride-share drivers, so the council will ask the state’s Public Utilities Commission to demand fingerprinting and background checks of all for-hire drivers.
Uber and Lyft would be also required to pay the airport a $4 fee for each pick-up and drop-off at LAX; drivers will have to do both on the airport’s upper departure level, and will have to wait in a specified holding area until they are summoned by a customer.
NOTE: Be sure to click here to see all recent TravelSkills posts about: Upgraded Hilton HHonors app + New perks for Starwood/AmEx cardholders + Alaska/AA airport lounge benefits + New international routes
I live in LA and don’t recall paying the $4 fee for being dropped off. Is Uber having to do something different?