Ahmedabad: In a couple of weeks, passengers arriving at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International (SVPI) airport will be able to board the next available cab instead of waiting for a driver assigned through a ride-hailing app to reach the pickup point. The airport operator recently concluded a pilot project with Uber aimed at reducing passenger wait times. Set to be fully operational, the system allows passengers to book a cab at a dedicated airport counter, receive a ride PIN and board any available Uber waiting in the designated pick-up zone.“Passengers can share their destination at the counter, where the fare and booking ID will be generated. They will then receive a unique ride PIN, which the driver will enter to begin the trip. Once the PIN is entered, the passenger will also receive the cab and driver information. The system removes the need for passengers to wait for a specific driver to arrive after accepting the booking,” a source explained.Airport officials said the model is expected to reduce passenger wait times, cut ride cancellations and improve the movement of vehicles in the airport’s arrival area by reducing idle time for cabs.“A common pick-up point will make the process much more convenient for passengers. Mumbai airport already follows a similar system. The key is to have clear signage so passengers can easily locate the designated pick-up area,” said Mumukshu Desai, a city professional.The airport plans to extend the facility to other app-based cab aggregators operating at SVPI airport after evaluating the pilot. Sources said the initiative is part of efforts to streamline surface transport and improve passenger flow, particularly during peak arrival hours, when congestion at cab pick-up points is common.
