New regulations around the use of taxis at Dublin Airport could see increased waiting times for passengers, a taxi firm has said.
The new Dublin Airport Taxi Permit, which comes into effect today, will grant permission to all drivers who pay a yearly fee of €10 to collect a pre-booked fare from one of the airport car parks.
"Picking up a fare on Dublin Airport Grounds other than the carparks is not permitted," airport operator DAA has said.
The permit will not cover pre-booked fares in certain areas near the airport such as the Dublin Airport Road Network, Circle K, McDonalds or the Radisson or Maldron Hotels.
Airport authorities say the change is to cope "with the surge in demand for pre-booked collections" in recent years.
The pre-booked permit will also not allow taxis to enter a taxi stand to pick up passengers, including joining of a virtual or digital queue on a taxi app.
Taxis outside T2 at Dublin Airport, 23-8-12. Image: Mark Stedman/Photocall IrelandHowever no such permit is required to drop off passengers at the airport.
The move has been criticised by drivers who say it will result in reduced taxi availability and longer waiting times.
FreeNow Ireland General Manager Charlie Gleeson said there is concern the restrictions will negatively impact both drivers and passengers.
"The new taxi permit will not only impede the ability of taxi drivers to collect passengers from Dublin Airport but could also trigger increased waiting times for passengers and potentially leave more travellers stranded at the airport, particularly at peak times," he said.
"The new requirements could compromise the availability of taxis on our app with 83% of drivers saying they are likely to avoid airport pick-ups due to the restrictions coming into effect this month," he added.
Research conducted among FreeNow drivers found a predominantly negative response to the new permit system.
Some 83% said they are likely to avoid picking up passengers from Dublin Airport as a result, while 80% anticipate that earnings will be negatively impacted if they are not permitted to accept a booking request within the airport campus and surrounding areas.
