How does Heathrow Airport crackdown on taxi touts in the terminals
- Perry Richardson
- Oct 20, 2024
- 1 min read
Heathrow Airport continues their efforts to tackle taxi touting within its terminals, working closely with the Aviation Policing Safer Airport team.
Touting involves drivers, both licensed and unlicensed, approaching passengers directly in an attempt to secure business without a prior booking or using official taxi ranks. This practice is not only illegal but can lead to overcharging, unregulated fares, and potential safety concerns for passengers.
Private hire vehicle (PHV) drivers are required by law to take bookings only through licensed operators. They are prohibited from soliciting fares directly from the public, either in the airport or anywhere else. By law, PHVs must be booked in advance, ensuring a regulated fare structure and traceable journey records.
In response to long term concerns, Heathrow’s Safer Airport team has been conducting covert operations to detect and deter touts. These plain-clothes patrols target areas of the airport where touting has been reported.
Last month, a spokesperson for Aviation Policing Heathrow emphasised the importance of using the official taxi ranks or pre-booking a cab for a safer and more reliable service.
This enforcement aims to maintain a secure environment for passengers while protecting legitimate taxi and PHV services operating at the airport.
