Uber and Lyft drivers can legally pick you up from the airport

ATLANTA — Atlanta’s City Council voted Monday afternoon by an overwhelming majority to allow drivers with ride-sharing services to pick up passengers at the Atlanta Airport starting Jan. 1.

The discussion on the matter started back in February, so the final decision was a long time coming. Council members voted 14 in favor and one against.

Uber, Lyft and taxi drivers showed up at the meeting Monday to voice their opinions.

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“This is not about drivers or work. This is about who's controlling the best interest for the safety for the citizens of Atlanta. Who really cares about that?" one driver said. %

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“One of the things that drew me to Atlanta was that we always seem to encourage new businesses, innovative businesses, things that are on the cutting edge. That's what I saw in Atlanta when I decided to move here,” said another.

The council believes ride-share drivers who go to the airport will now face many of the same regulations as taxi drivers – a $50 permit fee, a designated lot for them to wait in and a $3.85 per ride fee, with part of the fee going to the airport and the rest paying for driver background checks, which the companies themselves will perform.

Council members said in the past they knew ride-sharing companies were already working out at the airport, illegally. Starting in January, it's legal and the city will get paid.

Luke Marklin, general manager of Uber Atlanta, released the following statement:

“Getting a reliable ride at the tap of a button from the world’s busiest airport just got even more reliable.  The City Council passed an agreement for ride-sharing at Hartsfield-Jackson that is largely consistent with Georgia’s comprehensive law and ensures travelers will have the access to Uber they have come to expect.  While there are some outstanding logistical concerns, we look forward to working with the airport on the details of implementation to ensure a smooth experience for both riders and driver-partners.  We thank Mayor Kasim Reed for his leadership, thorough consideration, and commitment to safe transportation options for Atlanta residents and visitors - without which this agreement would not be possible.”

Cox Media Group