NO MORE TAGS? London taxi representatives reveal discussions around new Heathrow airport taxi app and virtual rank
Taxi representatives revealed new Heathrow Airport taxi rank management technology could be incoming with the aim to modernise taxi operations and do away with the current Tag devices.
The new system, designed by Australian firm Sensor Dynamics, was discussed on a recent Wizann video which involved HP Taxis host Paul Byron and airport driver representatives from the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association, United Cabbies Group and London Cab Drivers Club.
The overhaul looks set to address key challenges including congestion in feeder parks and terminals, errors in manual queue management, and a lack of accurate data on active drivers. By introducing a tech-driven solution, Heathrow hopes to optimise resource allocation and reduce delays.
The app based system would also mean a move away from the current Tag device. Whilst the number of taxi drivers able to register for the app would initially remain limited, clearer data would be available to potentially open up the taxi rank further in the future.
Central to the system is a mobile app enabling drivers to manage credits, monitor queue positions, and receive real-time terminal updates. Geo-fencing technology will track cabs entering designated areas, replacing manual first-in, first-out queuing with virtual queues. Drivers will also gain access to live data on terminal rank queue lengths, allowing them to plan more effectively which terminal to head to when on ‘local’ jobs allocated.
An automated penalty system will enforce compliance, removing drivers from the queue for route deviations or other infractions.
According to representatives, the taxi industry were told the new system would undergo trials starting in spring, but a meeting on the topic has yet to be had. The new app based rank would run parallel with the existing manual system for at least a year to ensure a smooth transition while addressing any initial issues.
Some drivers are likely to face an adjustment period, particularly those unfamiliar with app-based systems. Concerns over technology glitches and increased monitoring have also been raised.
According to the reps discussing the new rank technology, the new system could help reduce delays, eliminate the need for Tags, and improve the overall driver experience.
