The government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting licensed taxi operators at V.C. Bird International Airport, amid ongoing concerns about illegal commercial pickups.
Minister responsible for aviation Charles Fernandez said he supports the concerns raised by the United Taxi Company (UTC) over unauthorised drivers operating at the airport.
“I support all the Taxi Association’s concerns with illegal operators doing pickups,” he told Antigua.news, adding that the government is working with relevant authorities to address the issue.
As part of the response, an informational video has been installed on the airport’s baggage carousel system, advising arriving passengers which taxi operators are authorised to operate at the facility.
Mr Fernandez, who also holds responsibility for tourism, said illegal taxi activity is a problem at many international airports but stressed that Antigua and Barbuda is taking action.
“We will continue to work with the Police and the relevant organisations to mitigate against it,” he said.
The UTC has alleged that some private drivers using ‘A’ or ‘C’ registration plates are engaging in organised and unauthorised commercial pickups at the airport.
UTC president Ian Joseph said the association is not targeting individuals collecting family or friends, but claims some drivers are deliberately operating illegally for profit, creating unfair competition for licensed taxi operators.
The association says many visitors are unfamiliar with the difference between licensed taxis and private vehicles, making them vulnerable to illegal solicitations. Mr Joseph has also criticised what he describes as slow enforcement, saying visible monitoring at the airport remains limited.
He said the UTC is expected to decide shortly on what further action it may take.
In response to the dispute, Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin established a special committee late last year to review proposals submitted by the UTC.
The recommendations include stronger police enforcement, separate licensing fees for airport taxi operators, the introduction of a formal dispatch system, and a proposed royalty arrangement for the company.