Ride-sharing service Uber lifts geo-block around Sydney airport

Ride-sharing service Uber has lifted its geo-block around Sydney airport for its UberX service which will allow passengers to request pickups in the airport precinct.

While UberX services were not banned at Sydney airport in the past, passengers were only allowed to request an Uber Black, or limousine service, not its cheaper subsidiary UberX.

Some passengers had circumvented the geo-block by requesting an UberX in a neighboring area before phoning the driver to amend their location.

A spokesperson for Uber told Xinhua that in response to the huge demand for UberX at Sydney Airport, Uber has opened functionality in the app for driver-partners to pick up riders from the airport.

"We have focused on making sure our technology makes the ground transport connections as seamless as possible for the thousands of passengers who open the app every week at the airport looking for an UberX ride," they said on Thursday.

Uber noted, however, drivers would only be able to use publicly accessible pick up areas.

A spokesperson for Sydney airport said in a statement on Thursday they will be consulting with their airport partners regarding the new proposed arrangements.

"Sydney Airport is currently developing new arrangements to accommodate all booked service operators at the airport, including ride sharing services such as Uber, as well as limousines and pre-booked taxis," they said.

New South Wales (NSW) state taxi council chief executive Roy Wakelin-King condemned the move by Uber.

"The instructions given to Uber drivers will clog carparks, increase traffic congestion and impact on the amenity of local residents and businesses," Wakelin-King said.

"These will have direct negative impacts on people who are using Sydney Airport to catch a flight or to be picked up by their friends or families, as well disturbing local residents." Endit