Catching An Uber From The Airport: A Step-By-Step Guide

Catching an Uber from the airport is a convenient way to get to your destination, and it's available at many major airports worldwide. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Check-in and Flight Details: Before your trip, ensure you allow ample time to check in and pass through airport security. Also, consider external factors like traffic or road construction that might delay your journey to the airport.

2. Luggage and Vehicle Choice: Assess your luggage requirements and the number of passengers travelling with you. If you have multiple suitcases or a large group, consider booking a larger vehicle like UberXL or UberSUV.

3. Schedule Your Ride: You can schedule an Uber ride to the airport in advance, reducing last-minute stress. This option is available at various airports, and you can book up to 90 days ahead.

4. Pickup Location: Each airport has designated pickup locations for rideshare services. Check your Uber app, as it will guide you to the correct spot and even specify the terminal and door for meeting your driver.

5. Request a Ride: Once you've collected your luggage and are ready, request your Uber ride through the app. Your driver's estimated time of arrival will be affected by factors like traffic and their distance from the airport.

6. Communicate with Your Driver: If your driver needs clarification on the exact pickup location, they may call you. It's also helpful to inform them if you're travelling a long distance from the airport, as they may need to return home after your ride.

7. Tracking Your Flight: If you're being picked up from the airport, Uber's flight-tracking technology can monitor delays and adjust the pickup time accordingly. This feature ensures your driver is ready and waiting when you land.

8. Payment Options: In certain regions, like South Africa, you may have the option to pay for your Uber ride using airline miles or similar reward programs. Check your airline's website for such partnerships.

Check if you need a special permit or placard

Before your first airport pickup, it is important to check with Uber to see if you need a special permit or placard for your airport. This is because airport rules and operating procedures differ from city to city. For example, Uber drivers are required to display an airport placard to perform trips at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO).

To obtain an airport placard for LAX, drivers must pass the LAX quiz. The Uber vehicle decal must be displayed on the front and rear passenger windshields, facing outward, with the unique airport placard displayed beneath the front trade dress. Drivers can obtain this Uber decal at their local Greenlight Hub or by filling out a form to receive one by mail.

For SFO, drivers can request an airport placard by filling out a form or by visiting a local Greenlight Hub.

It is important to check with Uber or your local airport to ensure you have the correct permits or placards before your first airport pickup.

Find the designated pickup location

When catching an Uber from the airport, it is important to find the designated pickup location. This may differ from where you would usually be dropped off or where you would meet friends and family, as airports often have specific rules and regulations for rideshare services.

To find the designated pickup location, open your Uber app and enter your trip details, including your pickup location. The app will then direct you to the approved pickup spot, which may be a specific point or a designated zone for rideshare services. It is important to follow the directions provided by the app, as this will ensure you are in the correct location for your driver to find you.

In some cases, the app may recommend a nearby Pickup spot or multiple Quick pickup points. These suggestions are designed to make the pickup process faster and more efficient for both riders and drivers. You can choose one of these suggested locations or select a different pickup spot by moving the pin on the map or entering a new address.

If you are unable to locate the designated pickup location, you can also contact your driver through the app. The Uber app provides convenient features for communication, such as pre-written messages, which can be faster than calling or texting. Additionally, you can turn on the feature that transforms your phone screen into a glowing spotlight, making it easier for your driver to find you.

Ask the rider which airline they're flying with

Asking the rider which airline they are flying with is one of the two useful questions drivers can ask riders when taking them to the airport. This is in addition to asking whether they are flying domestically or internationally. Knowing the airline they are flying with can help drivers find the correct terminal and the airline's departures area. This is especially helpful in large and crowded airports.

Ask if the flight is domestic or international

Asking whether the flight is domestic or international is one of the two most important questions you can ask your rider when taking them to the airport. This is because, along with the airline they're flying with, this information will help you to find the correct terminal and departures area.

If you are the rider, it is useful to know whether your flight is domestic or international so that you can communicate this information to your driver. This will help them to navigate the airport more easily and ensure that they drop you off at the correct terminal.

Check the local arrivals schedule

Checking the local arrivals schedule is a good idea if you're planning to pick up riders at the airport. This will help you see when flights will be landing and when the airport will be busiest.

You can check the arrivals schedule online, or you can visit your local Greenlight Hub for expert help from Uber. You can also check the Uber airport information page for more information about your local airport.

If you're picking someone up from the airport, it's a good idea to ask them which airline they're flying with and whether their flight is domestic or international. That way, you can look for signs to their terminal and the airline's arrivals area.

Frequently asked questions