
Prague Airport is reconsidering its exclusive contract with Uber after ongoing criticism from passengers, including former Finance Minister Miroslav Kalousek.
The airport is now discussing introducing a traditional taxi service alongside its app-based system with Uber. If an agreement is not reached, the state-owned company plans to launch a tender for an additional taxi operator to serve the airport.
Controversial Taxi Contract Under Scrutiny
The five-year contract between Uber and Prague Airport, signed in September 2023, was intended to eliminate overcharging by rogue taxi drivers—an issue that had long plagued travel to and from the airport.
The deal requires Uber to fix fares in advance, ensuring that passengers are not charged extra due to route changes or traffic delays.
However, the shift to a digital ordering system, which requires passengers to book through an app or a kiosk, has sparked dissatisfaction among those who prefer the convenience of hailing a taxi on the spot.
Kalousek has been among the most vocal critics, calling the current setup a disgrace. “To get a taxi, I have to order it via the app or register at the terminal. I don’t want an app, nor do I want to register anywhere. I want a taxi I can pay for by card or cash and get a proper receipt. Period. This is an embarrassment,” he posted on X.
Uber Holds the Upper Hand
Despite the mounting pressure, Uber is not obligated to expand its service. The airport’s CEO, Jiří Pos, confirmed that while talks are ongoing, Uber has no contractual duty to modify its business model.
“We are negotiating with Uber to incorporate a classic taxi service into its offering in collaboration with a local operator. However, we have no legal means to force the company to comply,” Pos admitted.
Uber acknowledged the discussions but remained non-committal. “We are always open to expanding our services and continue working with Prague Airport to improve passenger comfort. Currently, the primary way to order a ride is via the app or airport kiosks. We are pleased that the number of satisfied passengers using our app is growing,” the company stated. It declined to say whether an agreement was likely.
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