Prague Airport in Talks to Bring Back Traditional Taxis
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Loading... - Bianca Palumbo
- 10 Feb 2025
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Prague Airport is currently reevaluating its exclusive contract with Uber following ongoing criticism from passengers, including notable figures such as former Finance Minister Miroslav Kalousek. The airport is exploring the possibility of introducing a traditional taxi service alongside its existing app-based system with Uber. If an agreement cannot be reached, the state-owned airport plans to initiate a tender for an additional taxi operator to serve its passengers.
The five-year contract between Uber and Prague Airport, signed in September 2023, aimed to address the long-standing issue of overcharging by rogue taxi drivers. Under this agreement, Uber is required to fix fares in advance, ensuring that passengers are not subjected to additional charges due to route changes or traffic delays.
However, the transition to a digital ordering system, which necessitates that passengers book their rides through an app or a kiosk, has led to dissatisfaction among those who prefer the convenience of hailing a taxi on the spot. Critics argue that this system is not user-friendly and limits options for travelers.
Miroslav Kalousek has been particularly vocal in his criticism, labeling the current setup as a "disgrace." He expressed his frustration on social media, stating, “To get a taxi, I have to order it via the app or register at the terminal. I don’t want an app, nor do I want to register anywhere. I want a taxi I can pay for by card or cash and get a proper receipt. Period. This is an embarrassment.”
Despite the growing pressure from passengers and stakeholders, Uber is not legally obligated to expand its service offerings. Jiří Pos, the airport’s CEO, confirmed that while negotiations are ongoing, Uber has no contractual duty to alter its business model.
“We are negotiating with Uber to incorporate a classic taxi service into its offering in collaboration with a local operator. However, we have no legal means to force the company to comply,” Pos admitted.
Uber has acknowledged the discussions but has remained non-committal about any potential changes. The company stated, “We are always open to expanding our services and continue working with Prague Airport to improve passenger comfort. Currently, the primary way to order a ride is via the app or airport kiosks. We are pleased that the number of satisfied passengers using our app is growing,” but declined to comment on the likelihood of an agreement.
As Prague Airport navigates the complexities of its relationship with Uber and the demand for traditional taxi services, the outcome of these discussions will be crucial for enhancing passenger experience. The airport's willingness to consider a more diverse range of transportation options reflects a growing recognition of the need for convenience and flexibility in travel. Whether traditional taxis will return to the airport remains to be seen, but the ongoing dialogue indicates a responsiveness to passenger needs and preferences.
