Hailing rides to and from LAX could get more expensive under new proposal

"On Tuesday morning, Los Angeles World Airports board members are expected to vote on whether to increase the access fees for private transportation companies that ferry travelers to and from Los Angeles International Airport, which includes ride app companies such as Uber and Lyft, along with taxi and limousine companies. The thinking, according to airport officials, is to encourage riders to use the yet-to-open Automated People Mover, also known as Skylink, and to reduce vehicle traffic around the terminals."

"At LAX, ride app companies including Uber and Lyft pay $4 to access the airport to pick up and drop off customers. Under Tuesday's proposal, the fee will rise to $12 to access the airport's central terminal area, and $6 for picking up and dropping off at Skylink. The increases will also apply to black car, taxi and limousine drivers who currently don't pay."

"We expect rides to be expensive like in every city but for it to go up even more is kind of crazy, said Jordan Conway, who was catching a ride into the city after arriving from Nashville with his friend for their annual trip to Southern California. Their ride from the airport was projected to cost about $80."

Los Angeles World Airports officials are proposing to significantly increase access fees for ride-sharing companies, taxis, and limousines at LAX. The current $4 fee would triple to $12 for central terminal access, with a $6 fee for Skylink pickups. The goal is to incentivize travelers to use the upcoming Automated People Mover train system and reduce vehicle traffic around terminals. The proposal has generated substantial opposition from Uber, Lyft, travelers, and state lawmakers due to affordability concerns. Airport officials have indicated willingness to delay implementation until after Skylink opens, acknowledging the impact on passenger costs.

Read at Los Angeles Times