### Uber Drivers Still Restricted from Operating in Tijuana Airport Zone
Despite claims from the Uber platform that drivers are authorized to operate within the Tijuana airport, local authority clarifications suggest otherwise. On Monday, Uber driver Armando attempted to complete a ride in the airport area but was informed by transit personnel that the operation was not yet permitted.
According to a statement from Tijuana’s communication office, private transport services like Uber are not allowed to operate in airports managed by Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP). While Uber announced through a communiqué that it holds a definitive suspension allowing them to offer services in Mexico, the Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications and Transport (SCT) has not issued any permits for platform services at airport zones.
“GAP has not received official information on this matter. We’ve seen the notes and declarations, but without official communication from the SCT, which regulates this area, we cannot make a formal statement,” clarified GAP’s communication department. Currently, only official taxi services are authorized to access the Abelardo L. Rodríguez airport, as it is a federal zone governed by the Federal Airports Law.
Armando the Uber driver, shared his confusion, “Supposedly, we are authorized, but when I went yesterday, a traffic officer told me we weren’t. I noticed trips being made, but it seems risky as the National Guard might intervene.”
José Manuel González, a user, complained about the high fares charged by official airport taxis compared to Uber. “In Tijuana and Tepic, airport trips cost over 300 pesos even for short distances, which is why people prefer route taxis instead of hiring official ones,” he noted.
### Additional News on the Topic
**Issue of Unregulated Uber Operations**
As per recent reports, Uber faces regulatory challenges across various airports in Mexico, including Tijuana and Guadalajara. Drivers continue to operate at risk of fines and confrontations with local authorities despite Uber’s legal stance. This ongoing issue highlights the need for clearer regulations and communications from both Uber and local transport authorities.
**Comparison with Other Mexican Airports**
In Puerto Vallarta, another GAP-managed airport, there has been significant pushback against Uber operations. Last month, several Uber drivers were fined for picking up passengers within the airport vicinity. Uber reassures drivers and users that it is negotiating with state authorities to establish a framework for ride-sharing services at airports.
**Governmental Responses to Ride-Sharing Services**
In response to the increasing reliance on ride-sharing platforms, the Mexican government is looking to reform federal regulations to accommodate services like Uber while also ensuring safety and fair competition with local taxi providers. These reforms are expected to be discussed in the upcoming legislative session, acknowledging the evolving mobility needs in urban areas.
Stay informed with the latest updates and detailed reports on TJGringo.com for more continuous coverage on how Uber and similar platforms are reshaping urban transport in Mexico.