Why your Bengaluru airport cab fare is about to rise? Pickup rules spark ride-hailing backlash

Bengaluru: Ride-hailing services Rapido and Namma Yatri publicly challenged Bengaluru airport's new pickup restrictions, warning the system could drive up fares and inconvenience passengers while favouring a select group of operators.

The new arrivals pickup system, implemented by Bangalore International Airport Limited between December 11-13, bars non-authorised operators from kerbside access at both terminals. Only seven authorised taxi services, KSTDC, Mega, Uber, Ola, Quick Ride, OHM Electric Cabs, and WTI, can pick up passengers directly at the curb, while other services must wait in designated parking areas.

"The recent changes to pickup access at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport for non-mandated services risk affecting passenger convenience and choice," a Rapido spokesperson said Wednesday. "Restrictions that force commuters to walk longer distances, navigate unclear pickup points, or limit available mobility options can create friction at the terminal and, over time, contribute to higher fares across the ecosystem."

Driver Protests and Passenger Complaints

The policy has triggered protests from drivers and passengers alike. On December 16, the Karnataka Drivers' Union staged a demonstration near Sadahalli Gate toll plaza, with hundreds of taxi operators demanding that the rules be rolled back. Police resorted to a mild lathi charge when protesters attempted to block vehicles from entering the airport.

Union president G Narayanaswamy alleged the restrictions affect thousands of drivers, including those in Telegram and WhatsApp "duty groups" that offer commission-free rides. Travel agents and hotels arranging VIP airport pickups have also been impacted.

Passengers arriving at Terminal 1 now face a walk of nearly one kilometre to Parking Zone 4 to board non-authorised taxis. Several travellers on social media complained about dragging luggage without trolleys, particularly difficult for elderly passengers and families with children.

Airport Defends Policy

BIAL defended the changes, claiming 95 per cent of passengers are now "comfortable" with the system. A spokesperson said the policy follows practices at leading global airports and aims to reduce congestion caused by the roughly 100,000 vehicles traversing the airport daily.

The airport has introduced shuttle services and buggies along covered walkways with travelators to ease access to parking areas. Private vehicles receive eight minutes of free kerbside access, with charges of Rs 150-300 for overstaying before vehicles risk being towed.

Authorised operators pay annual fees to BIAL for dedicated parking bays, contributing to higher passenger fares. Uber typically charges around Rs 250 airport access fee plus Rs 120 toll per ride.