Press Room

Posted on: Wed, 07/05/2017 - 10:53

Lyft and Uber first to offer app-based service

ONTARIO, Calif. - July 5, 2017 - The Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) today approved the addition of mobile application-based ride-hailing services to the airport's ground transportation permit program. The Transportation Network Companies will be authorized to pick-up and drop-off passengers at Ontario International Airport after meeting the airport's TNC permit requirements.

In announcing the OIAA action, airport officials noted the first app-based providers to complete the permit process are Lyft Inc. and Uber Technologies Inc. Lyft and Uber are expected to begin offering the service at ONT later today.

"We are pleased to make available another way for airline passengers to access our airport where passenger volumes have been growing steadily," said OIAA Commissioner and San Bernardino County 4th District Supervisor Curt Hagman. "While many drive themselves or use existing taxi, limousine and shuttle services, market demand for online, app-based services has increased in recent months. I am confident the permitting of this popular mode of transportation will be well-received by airline passengers and enhance their travel experience."

Passengers will be picked-up and dropped-off at designated locations near each of the passenger terminals and the USO Lounge.

TNC drivers will wait in a designated staging area for airport passenger assignments. Each transportation network company vehicle will also be required to display a company logo or identifier that is distinguishable within 50 feet of the vehicle.

Passage through an established airport boundary defined by Geographic Information System coordinates, or geo-fence, will constitute a trip, requiring payment by the TNC of a $3 trip fee that will be included in the final cost of a passenger's trip to and from the airport.

Trip fees provide necessary recovery costs associated with administration, operations, security and maintenance of airport roads, and they are in line with similar fees at other airports in Southern California.

Throughout the preparation of the TNC operating permit program ONT officials solicited comments from Lyft and Uber, the two largest app-based service providers in California, as well as existing ground transportation services currently operating at the airport including taxi companies, shared-ride vans and limousine operators.

In order to provide service at ONT, transportation network companies must possess a valid permit issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and insurance coverage required by the CPUC and OIAA. The companies must also comply with state law regarding driver background checks and vehicle inspections.