AUSTIN, Texas -- Passengers at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport are still getting used to a new location to pick up taxis and ride-hailing apps, which began operations the week of Thanksgiving.
- Ride-hailing apps and taxis must pick up from new area
- Tram connects travelers
- Change removes 3,700 cars from arrivals pickup area
Riders on apps like RideAustin, Uber and Lyft say it was confusing at first to find the new pickup zone.
"I have noticed people are typically lost when I come, and I help. It was a lot easier before, but I will also say--as someone who gets dropped off at the airport--I think diverting the Uber cars out of the main line has also helped the line coming in. It’s a trade-off, but you have to walk," said Chris Davis, who's caught a ride from the new facility four times since its debut.
Airport officials said the new pickup area is about 600 feet from the curb outside baggage claim. It's also on Floor 2 of the garage, which requires travelers to go up or down one level after exiting the airport.
Signs are posted throughout the route to help guide travelers.
"We worked with the ride app and taxi operators to develop a way that would best suit their needs as well. It removes about 3,700 cars per day from the curbside section on the lower level of the terminal, which is significant if you are coming through. That is a significant amount of cars that are now being relocated to a facility across the street from our main curbside area," said ABIA Spokesman Bryce Dubee.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps are still allowed to drop passengers off at the main terminal.
A tram runs throughout the day to help passengers make the trek with minimal inconvenience. The tram is ADA-compliant, Dubee said.
