Mexico City airport chaos as taxi drivers block Uber access in protest
Tensions between traditional taxi drivers and ride-hailing services have escalated at Mexico City's international airport. On Wednesday, March 11, licensed taxi drivers blocked access to the terminals for nearly three hours, causing travel disruptions. The protest came as Uber insisted its operations at airports were legally protected by a recent court ruling.
The conflict centres on a federal court injunction from March 11, 2026, which ordered the National Guard to stop arbitrarily detaining Uber drivers at airports. The ruling reinforced a 2025 suspension that allowed Uber to operate without fines or vehicle confiscations. Despite this, taxi drivers continue to accuse authorities of secretly favouring Uber and Didi, claiming these platforms lack proper permits and avoid fees that traditional taxis have paid for decades.
On the same day as the court's decision, taxi drivers staged blockades at Mexico City International Airport (AICM), preventing travellers from reaching the terminals. They argued that app-based services were operating illegally, undermining their livelihoods. Uber, however, maintained that its drivers had the legal right to pick up and drop off passengers at all Mexican airports. The government has yet to respond clearly to the protests, the National Guard's enforcement actions, or Uber's legal protections. With Mexico co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the dispute raises concerns about transport access for the expected surge in tourists.
The court's injunction protects Uber from fines and vehicle seizures, but enforcement remains inconsistent. Taxi drivers continue to resist ride-hailing services, creating uncertainty for passengers and drivers alike. The lack of a clear government stance leaves the conflict unresolved as major events approach.
