FAAN clarifies Uber and Bolt airport operations

The FAAN e-hailing policy does not amount to a blanket ban on Uber and Bolt at Nigerian airports, the authority has clarified.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) made the clarification in a statement issued on Thursday in Lagos, following concerns about restrictions affecting e-hailing services at airports.

FAAN said discussions with e-hailing operators were still ongoing to establish a practical framework for their activities. The authority stressed that its position was not designed to limit passengers’ access to transport or remove the convenience offered by platforms such as Uber and Bolt.

Instead, FAAN said its main concern was ensuring that commercial transport services operating within airport premises meet required safety, security and operational standards.

According to the authority, airports operate under strict regulations, meaning commercial transport providers need an appropriate system that allows airport officials to identify and monitor their vehicles, drivers and activities.

FAAN said such a framework would also allow better coordination when security or passenger-related incidents occur. It noted that the need for proper identification and accountability was particularly important because of the large number of people moving through airports every day.

The authority said transport operators must therefore be identifiable, accountable and properly integrated into airport security and operational arrangements.

FAAN also clarified the purpose of its Airport Car Hire Rank Management System (ACHRAMS). It said ACHRAMS is not an e-hailing application. Instead, the platform was created to provide operational visibility and tracking within airport premises while helping manage relevant concession and other airport-related charges.

The authority said it had received complaints and identified operational difficulties connected with commercial transport services around airports. These included passenger solicitation and touting, which FAAN said made a clearer system for managing transport operations necessary.

“The authority have been engaging relevant e-hailing operators to develop a mutually acceptable operational framework that will recognise the value of service.

“FAAN is addressing the safety, security, accountability and passenger-experience requirements of the airport environment.

“The current situation should therefore not be misconstrued as FAAN declaring a blanket prohibition on e-hailing services,” it said.

According to FAAN, its discussions with operators are intended to allow e-hailing services to continue serving passengers while meeting the requirements of the airport environment.

The authority acknowledged the convenience and wider transport choices that platforms such as Uber and Bolt provide. At the same time, it recognised that passengers could face inconvenience while the outstanding issues are being resolved.

FAAN said it wants to conclude discussions with the operators quickly. Key issues still under consideration include passenger safety, security, operational visibility, accountability and the management of airport pick-up points.

The authority expressed confidence that it would reach an agreement acceptable to all sides soon.

The clarification marks an important distinction from reports suggesting that FAAN had imposed a complete ban on e-hailing services. Under the FAAN e-hailing policy, the authority says the focus is instead on creating a regulated structure that allows these services to operate safely and accountably within airport premises.

FAAN reiterated that its actions are intended to protect passengers and maintain a safe, secure, orderly and seamless airport experience. It also said it remains willing to work with Uber, Bolt and other mobility providers so that travellers can continue to access safe and convenient transport at Nigerian airports.

Do you think FAAN’s proposed framework can balance airport security with the convenience and affordability of e-hailing services?