Taxi drivers raise concerns over lost waiting area at Palm Springs International Airport
Luis Avila
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Taxi drivers at Palm Springs International Airport say the loss of a designated staging area is making it harder for them to work efficiently.
Leonel Reyes, a local taxi driver, says the problem began last month, when the airport stopped allowing taxis to use a dedicated waiting area that previously offered air-conditioning, restrooms, food space, and vending machines. Drivers say those amenities were especially important during busy travel days.
Reyes says the airport is still allowing taxi drivers to wait in other areas on airport property, but that is creating a new set of problems.
“We are kind of being pushed into the ‘call lot’ where most of the local residents who are here to pick up their loved ones are normally waiting for their passengers to arrive,” he explains. “There are restrooms available but these are porter potties. Now, that’s one of the bigger concerns.”
Reyes says he was unsure of the reason behind the relocation, noting only that he had heard it might be designated for construction engineers. He also raised concerns about gaps in communication between airport officials and taxi drivers.
He says, “They may be communicating but we’re not getting the communications. When I say that, I don’t want to put the owners at fault but we’re not getting a complete story as to where we’re going to go.”
An airport spokesperson tells News Channel 3 they were not aware of the drivers’ concerns but said the issue is being reviewed.
Palm Springs International Airport Statement:
“As part of ongoing airport improvement projects, the previous taxi staging area is temporarily being used for construction staging.
Taxi operations remain active and supported, with access to curbside queuing, alternative waiting locations, and restroom facilities both at the new waiting area and inside the terminal.
These adjustments are part of planned airport enhancements and are not expected to impact service for passengers or drivers.”
Stay with News Channel 3 for more.