Rideshare drivers at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in America have been protesting for better pay and a better split of the fares during one of the year's busiest travel times. The drivers have shut off their apps and gathered at the airport to send a message to companies like Uber and Lyft. They believe that their current pay is unfair and are demanding a change.
Airport officials are expecting hundreds of thousands of travelers during this time, and the drivers want to make their presence known by boycotting the pick-up service for a few hours. They want to get the attention of rideshare companies by showing solidarity and demanding a fairer compensation system.
According to one driver, Devora Williams, she recently had a passenger pay $102 for a 40-minute ride, but she only received $25. Even with a $5 bonus, she would have only received $20. Williams calls this pay discrepancy "ridiculous." The drivers are pushing for an 80/20 split of the fares, where they get 80%, and the rideshare companies get 20%.
Uber and Lyft have been contacted to comment on the breakdown of driver pay at the airport, but there has been no response.
During the demonstration, confused travelers have been seen standing around, unable to request a ride. Some have reported difficulties with the rideshare apps and have been unable to find drivers to take them to their destinations. Initially, the drivers planned to shut down their apps from 4 pm to 6 pm, but it seems the protest may continue for longer. They want to ensure their message is heard and that rideshare companies take notice of their demands.
Source: Youtube
