Last Updated
Just weeks ago, it was reported that Uber had notified its drivers that they could start transporting passengers to and from Cancun Airport.
Now, according to reports, that doesn’t seem to be the case because Cancun authorities are allegedly blocking Uber from doing so.
Uber’s operation at the airport has long been an issue in Cancun.
Let’s examine the situation and what you should do if you plan to visit the destination soon.
Uber Being Blocked From The Airport By The National Guard
According to reports, federal officers from the National Guard were posted outside of Terminal 2 at Cancun Airport on Thursday, blocking Uber drivers from entering with and picking up passengers.
In the reports, it’s stated that their purpose was to weed out drivers who do not have federal permits to operate at the airport.
Taxi drivers were allowed to enter.
The Recent Announcement About Uber Operating At The Airport
On August 15th Uber sent out an email to its drivers in Cancun notifying them that they could begin operating at the airport, legally.
According to Uber, this was due to a judge reversing a previous decision not to allow the rideshare platform to do so.
Initially, users reported being able to request rides to get to and from the airport, but apparently, that is not the case today.
Why Some Are Saying Uber Operating At The Airport Is Still Illegal
Shortly after Uber drivers were notified about this change, taxi drivers protested the legality of the move.
According to them, they need a federal concession or permit to offer service at and drop off at the airport.
While they concede that Uber can operate in other areas of the city, they do not agree with them operating at Cancun International.
The History Of Uber In Cancun
Uber began operating in Cancun for the first time in 2016, but it didn’t last for long.
While locals and tourists immediately took advantage of the more affordable transportation option, taxi drivers were not happy about it.
Uber was forced out of the market for several years, returning in 2019, unofficially, and gaining official recognition to operate in Cancun in January of 2023, just not at the airport.
The Recent Blockade At The Airport By Taxi Drivers
Now that Uber has also been given the green light to operate at the airport, according to Uber, taxi drivers are even more upset, as this is where they make most of their money.
To protest the decision, taxi drivers formed a blockade near the airport last week.
This was to prevent access from Uber drivers.
Airport Transportation For Your Cancun Trip
Since Uber really isn’t an option to get to and from the airport and your hotel right now, you’ll have to choose another option.
Taxis are pretty pricey, costing up to $65 for a one-way trip, so if you’re going to pay that much, you might as well get private transportation.
It might cost a little more, but if you schedule in advance, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying, whereas taxis can vary depending on the driver.
Getting To The Airport In Time When Departing From Cancun
Getting to the airport on time when you’re departing from Cancun is important.
There has already been one protest, so it’s not unlikely that more will take place before this issue is resolved.
Because of this, it’s a good idea to leave early for the airport to get there three hours before departure, which is the recommended timeframe for international flights.
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.