Prague Airport is negotiating the return of classic taxis amid ongoing passenger dissatisfaction with the current Uber-only system. Although a five-year contract with Uber was signed less than 18 months ago, critics like former finance minister Miroslav Kalousek argue that relying solely on a mobile app or kiosk is inconvenient. To address these concerns, the airport is in talks with Uber about adding a traditional taxi service. If these negotiations fail, the state-owned airport will launch a tender for an additional operator.
The current Uber-dominated taxi stand has faced challenges from the start. The first tender was canceled and the second delayed by antitrust reviews. The contract was only finalized in September 2023 after numerous delays, with Uber winning the bid by meeting the airport’s priority of preventing taxi driver overcharging. Under the contract, taxi fares are fixed in advance—even if the route changes or the vehicle gets stuck in traffic. Still, many passengers prefer the classic taxi model.
“There are passengers who want a traditional taxi service without having to pre-order, even if it carries a risk of being overcharged,” said Jiří Pos, chairman of Prague Airport’s board. “I just want a taxi I can pay by card or cash and get a receipt, without using an app or registering anywhere.”
The airport is also consulting with potential operators on how a conventional taxi service could complement Uber. However, its priority remains to negotiate directly with Uber. Uber confirmed to e15 that it is open to new opportunities to expand its services and improve user experience, though it did not commit to offering a traditional taxi option.
“I expect a final decision from Uber by the start of the summer season,” Pos said. With over 16.3 million passengers last year and an expected increase of another two million this year, Prague Airport aims to meet growing demand. If negotiations do not yield a solution that satisfies more traditional passengers, a supplementary tender for a second taxi operator may be launched later this year.