Transportation officials have rejected requests including a proposed “baggage fee” from the airport taxi community, whose members have complained it is very difficult to earn a living.
Representatives of the drivers had asked officials to take action, as they do not make enough money using the meter, which compels them to overcharge passengers; however, the Department of Land Transport insisted they earn the same as taxis everywhere and do not need special treatment.
“The taxi drivers at Suvarnabhumi Airport, although they make 4 to 5 trips per shift, earn as much as the ones who drive in the city with 13 to 14 trips,” Jirut Wisanchit of the Department of Land Transport said yesterday. “The average distance [for all taxi drivers] is 30 kilometers, so it is impossible to allow Suvarnabhumi taxis to not use the meter.”
On top of the fare, he said Suvarnabhumi taxis also collect an additional THB50 fee. He insisted the taxi drivers must use the meter every time or have their licenses revoked.
Regarding the baggage fee proposed by the drivers, Jirut said the organization will look into the matter, but the process of issuing a new regulation would take a long time.
Were the change to be approved, officials would have to make sure every driver collected the same fee. The charge would also be introduced to bus station taxis.
As long as no regulation or rule supports such a baggage charge, Jirut reminded drivers it is for them to attempt to collect any such fees, Daily News reported.
Photo: Sugree Phatanapherom
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