Bangkok Taxi Drivers Warned Against Airport Blockade Over Ride-Hailing Dispute
Bangkok, May 22 — The Department of Land Transport has issued a stern warning to traditional taxi drivers threatening to block access to Suvarnabhumi Airport in protest against ride-hailing services, stating that any attempt to disrupt operations will result in legal action.
“There cannot be any blockage of airports. Any wrongdoers will face legal action,” said Chirute Visalachitra, director-general of the department, in response to a protest held near Government House on Wednesday.
The group of taxi drivers voiced frustration over the growing presence of ride-hailing services, claiming they are losing income to app-based competitors. They demanded a ban on ride-hailing vehicles at airports and threatened to escalate their protest by blocking Thailand’s main international gateway if their demands are not addressed.
Chirute emphasized that Airports of Thailand Plc, which operates six international airports across the country, has the legal authority to allow ride-hailing vehicles to access airport facilities.
Currently, Suvarnabhumi sees around 6,000 traditional taxi trips daily, compared to approximately 5,000 ride-hailing trips. The latter includes many traditional taxi drivers who also use digital platforms to pick up fares, Chirute added.
“Technology is undeniable. Taxi drivers must adapt,” he said. “Many traditional taxi drivers are already providing services through apps.”
Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote confirmed that the issue will be discussed at a meeting scheduled for May 28. He reiterated the government’s stance that technological progress is essential and passengers should have choices in transportation services.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between traditional taxi operators and the rise of ride-hailing platforms, a dynamic playing out in cities around the world as digital transformation reshapes the transportation landscape.
