Mexico City airport chaos as taxi drivers block Uber's disputed access
A dispute over ride-hailing services at Mexico City International Airport (AICM) has escalated into protests, legal battles and government intervention. Dozens of licensed taxi drivers blocked access to Terminals 1 and 2 on Wednesday, causing delays and forcing passengers to walk longer distances with their luggage. The conflict follows a court ruling that temporarily halted fines and detentions against Uber drivers, though authorities insist the app remains banned from airport operations.
The tension began when a federal judge issued an injunction preventing 'arbitrary fines and detentions' of Uber drivers at AICM. Uber claimed the ruling allowed them to operate freely, warning that airport authorities could face sanctions for ignoring the decision. However, the airport and taxi unions argued the injunction only stopped arrests—not the ban itself.
On Wednesday, taxi drivers staged a protest by blocking terminal entrances, disrupting traffic and passenger movement. Their demonstration came in response to a proposed bill that would let ride-hailing apps operate on all federal properties, including airports. The drivers fear this change could threaten their income.
The Transportation Ministry (SICT) reaffirmed that Uber remains unauthorised to pick up passengers at AICM and other airports. National Guardsmen patrolled the area on Thursday, issuing verbal warnings to rideshare drivers and threatening to confiscate vehicles of repeat offenders. Despite this, Uber drivers continued to collect passengers, defying the reinstated restrictions.
The legal dispute centres on ending the closed taxi market at airports nationwide. Regulators have accused the airport authority of collusion and anti-competitive practices, while the new bill seeks to standardise rules for both ride-hailing apps and traditional taxis ahead of the World Cup.
The standoff leaves passengers caught between conflicting policies and enforcement actions. While Uber pushes for equal access, taxi drivers and airport officials insist the ban remains in place. The outcome of the ongoing court case will determine whether ride-hailing apps can legally operate at Mexican airports in the future.
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