Last Updated
In most vacation destinations, travelers turn to taxis or Ubers to get to and from the airport and around town while visiting.
In Cancun recently, though, some taxi drivers made it more difficult for tourists to get there, blocking tourists from Cancun Airport access during protests.
The protests were against Uber’s rideshare platform being able to operate at the airport.
Unfortunately, it left tourists having to get out of their vehicles and make their way to the airport on foot.
Let’s take a look at why these protests are happening, and how worried you should be if you’ll be visiting Cancun soon.
Uber At Cancun Airport
Uber has been available in Cancun for several years now, since 2016, but the rideshare platform has not been able to pick up or drop off at the airport, until recently.
It was just a few weeks ago when Uber notified its drivers that they could begin operating at Cancun Airport.
Shortly after the announcement was made, users reported being able to request rides, but taxi drivers have been putting up a fight.
Why Taxi Drivers Are Angry
Taxi drivers have been fighting against Uber operating in Cancun because they feel it’s unfair competition because Uber drivers don’t have to pay concession fees.
They also feel that Uber is operating illegally at airports because they are under federal jurisdiction.
They argue that Uber can operate in state-mandated areas, but that it doesn’t include the airport, which is where they make most of their money.
What The Disagreement Means For Tourists
Throughout this battle between taxi and Uber drivers, tourists have landed in the crossfire, so to speak.
This isn’t the first time that protests have resulted in tourists having to get out and walk to the airport.
Additionally, tourists have been made to get out of Uber vehicles by taxi drivers, in vehicles blocked by taxi drivers, and involved in other incidents between taxi and Uber drivers.
Should You Be Worried About Getting To The Airport?
Despite the issues taking place, there haven’t been reports of tourists missing their flights yet.
The protests take place pretty close to the airport and not all travelers are forced to get out and walk.
The important thing is to give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport on time.
Choosing Your Transportation Wisely
According to recent reports, even private vehicles were affected by the protests, with taxi drivers going so far as to force drivers to let them see their phones to make sure they were not Uber drivers.
With situations like this going on, you want to choose your transportation wisely, and you have several options.
Taxis, private cars, shuttles, and public transportation are all available at Cancun Airport.
When To Leave To Get To The Airport On Time
On a normal day, it’s recommended that international tourists should arrive at Cancun Airport about three hours before flight departure.
The trip to the airport varies depending on several factors, including situations like this, so it can take anywhere from a half hour to an hour or more.
It might be wise to leave an hour before that three-hour mark just to give yourself some extra time.
The Future Of Transportation In Cancun
Hopefully it won’t be long before the Uber situation is figured out.
The problem is nothing really seems to be getting settled, but more and more there’s an urge to solve the problem.
Until then, getting to and from the airport when visiting Cancun is something to really consider.
Plan Your Next Cancun Vacation:
Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!
Choose From Thousands of Cancun and Riviera Maya Hotels, Resorts and Hostels with Free Cancellation On Most Properties
↓ Join the community ↓
The Cancun Sun Community FB group has all the latest travel news, conversations and tourism Q&A’s for the Mexican Caribbean
Subscribe to our Latest Posts
Enter your email address to subscribe to The Cancun Sun’s latest breaking news affecting travelers, straight to your inbox.