Massport aiming for fees, changes to ride share drop-offs

BOSTON — Lyft and Uber rides to the airport may cost you even more soon.

Massport officials have come up with a plan to ease traffic coming in and out of Logan Airport as part of a new transportation strategy. The biggest change for people flying out of Logan will be where they’re dropped off.

Uber and Lyft drop you off right at your terminal now, but under the new proposal, there will be a centralized 'drop-off' zone in the parking garages.

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That drop-off zone would be in the same place where you go to pick-up your ride share at the airport. That means you’ll be walking a little farther to catch your flight.

"I think I would be less apt to take an Uber because you would just take away the whole convenience from it," said Kaylea Dohm of Boston. "At that point, I would just take the T and take that shuttle."

Last year, Massport tallied that Uber and Lyft created 12 million vehicle trips to and from Logan.  Five million of those ride shares – Massport says – were empty vehicles.

Right now, all airports in the country allow ride shares to drop off curbside at terminals.

Also, under Massport's proposal, the pickup fee for Uber and Lyft would increase from $3.25 to $5. Riders would also pay the same thing to be dropped off at the airport.

Uber told Boston 25 News that they are working with Massport on a compromise.

"The current proposal would result in customers paying more and getting less," they said.

Lyft also spoke to Boston 25.

"We are hopeful that we can reach shared goals of ensuring that the rideshare experience at Boston Logan can be affordable and hassle-free," they said.

These changes are to cut down on traffic in East Boston, according to the agency. State and city officials say there has been a 47 percent increase in traffic congestion between 2013-2018.

"It would be a bit unfortunate, but I think it could be manageable if it helps the airport manage traffic better," said Stephanie Pena of Boston.

Massport says this initiative also comes with a plan to double Logan Express bus ridership.The Massport board will vote on these changes next month.

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