Cabdrivers at Dayton airport seek Uber ban

By Cornelius Frolik

Dayton Daily News

A group of taxi drivers at the Dayton International Airport have petitioned the city to ban Uber from picking up passengers at the terminal or force them to pay new fees.

More than 30 drivers representing multiple companies signed a document requesting the city take action to improve their work conditions.

Drivers say it is unfair that Uber can pick up travelers at the airport without having to pay per-customer airport fees and following the same regulations as taxi operators.

The drivers also asked to be allowed to access the terminal to use the public restrooms and patronize retail businesses.

“We have permits here and pay fees; [Uber drivers] don’t,” said Shannon Walters, a driver with Dayton Express Taxi. “At least let us work the airport Uber-free.”

However, Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley said Uber has paid an annual fee for the right to operate in the city and at the airport.

She said the city is in the process of updating its policies to comply with a a new state law that allows airports to regulate Uber and similar companies.

“We’re in the final phase of putting regulations in place,” she said.

A request seeking comment from Uber was not returned.

On Wednesday, Walters attended the Dayton City Commission meeting and submitted a petition signed by 32 contracted taxi drivers at the Dayton airport.

The document states taxi operators who work the airport are struggling to survive because of Uber.

Uber is what is known as a ride-sharing company. Customers download an app on their mobile devices and enter their credit card information.

Customers arrange rides from private-car owners or taxi and limo operators.

The transactions are digital, and no cash is exchanged. Other ride-sharing companies have expressed interest in entering the Dayton market.

Taxi drivers must pay the airport a $2.15 fee for every pick up at the terminal, while Uber does not, Walters said.