Starting from March 2024, Leonardo da Vinci airport in Fiumicino implemented an automated taxi booking system to streamline the process and eliminate the possibility of taxi drivers selecting passengers based on perceived profitability. While this initiative aims to improve passenger experience and fairness, it has sparked criticism and raised concerns among taxi drivers and unions.
System Overview:
The system assigns taxi drivers a progressive number upon entering the designated parking area. Passengers can book a taxi using the kiosks and receive a ticket with the assigned taxi license number and the fare to be paid.
Taxi drivers must strictly comply with the order assigned by the automatic management system and are limited to a maximum of 5 minutes in the terminal collection areas. Upon exiting the parking area, taxis must display the passenger’s QR code.
Criticisms and concerns:
The taxi drivers’ unions have expressed concerns about the impact of the system on efficiency and passenger satisfaction. They argue that the automated triage process leads to delays and inconvenience for both passengers and drivers.
Passengers may face extended waiting times and drivers could experience longer wait times, potentially impacting their earnings.
Union requests:
In response to these concerns, taxi drivers’ unions have requested the following actions from Aeroporti di Roma (AdR), the airport operator:
- Suspend the automatic taxi assignment system to speed up passenger loading and reduce waiting times.
- Reopen the second loading lane at Terminal 3 keeping the pedestrian passage protected.
- Restore the 24-hour taxi calling system for uninterrupted passenger access.
- Improve hygiene and health conditions in the bathrooms in the parking area.
Conclusion:
The automated taxi booking system at Fiumicino airport aims to address concerns related to unfair passenger screening practices.
However, the implementation of the system has raised questions about its impact on efficiency and passenger experience.
AdR should consider the feedback carefully of taxi drivers and passengers unions to evaluate the effectiveness of the system and make the necessary changes to ensure a smooth and satisfying experience for all parties involved.
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