Taxi Drivers Say SFO Is Making A Big Mistake By Allowing Lyft, Uber To Operate At Airport
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS)— Members of the San Francisco Airport Commission have approved a three-month trial period that will allow Lyft, Uber and Sidecar to operate at SFO International Airport.
However, Taxi drivers argued Tuesday that the program will harm their business and threatens public safety.
"It's totally unfair what you're doing to the cab drivers. You made this deal behind closed doors," said Ashwani Ari, a cab driver for 20 years.
He joined dozens of other taxi drivers at a packed SFO Airport Commission hearing. The commission is made up of five members appointed to four-year terms by the mayor of San Francisco.
Ari said allowing the on-demand transportation network companies (TNCs), gives them an unfair advantage.
"Taxis are forced to follow all these regulations, which cost $30,000 to $40,000 a year. How are we going to compete with somebody who has no regulations?"
The cabbies say SFO has made a big mistake because they claim Lyft and Sidecar drivers aren't given background checks and don't need a permit.
One cab driver said they aren't vetted and are potentially dangerous.