Ride-sharing companies to start picking up OIA travelers this weekend

ORLANDO, Fla. — Uber’s general manager in Florida is explaining more details about what users can expect when the service begins picking riders up at Orlando International Airport.

Before a new state law was passed, passengers had to request an Uber Select, which is the more expensive ride option.

Starting this weekend, they can request whichever option they’d like, but still pay a few dollars, which will go to the airport.

Taxi rides from OIA are subject to a fee as well.

Kara Moshaani, Uber’s Florida general manager, said the change comes after a long battle in the Orlando market, and also said that it makes ride-sharing consistent across the state for riders and drivers.

“What this means is, for the drivers, the same experience in terms of economic opportunities, being able to earn money on the platform,” he said. “That’s going to be consistent across the state.”

The changes are set to go into effect Saturday.

Uber driver Linda Lehr said it was inconvenient not to be able to pick up people from the airport.

“It’s frustrating for them and it’s frustrating for us,” said Lehr.

Passengers at the airport can expect to pay a $5.80 fee on top of their fare.

The fee, which was set by the airport, is the highest in the country, Moshaani said.

“We would have liked to have the fee be lower, however, we’re hopeful that through our partnership we can revisit the issue,” he said.

Fee or no fee, Lehr said she expects her ridership to get a big boost.

“I live close enough to the airport. I’m ready for you,” she said.

Moshaani said there are other details still being worked out with airport officials.

Cox Media Group