Sky Harbor, Phoenix ready for Uber deal for airport passengers

PHOENIX — Ridesharing companies, such as Uber and Lyft, could soon be allowed to pick up travelers at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

In a statement, Sky Harbor officials said they have laid the groundwork for a deal to be reached with both Uber and Lyft.

“The airport has proposed making many changes to the ground transportation system to create a level playing field for all parties running for-profit, ground transportation and parking businesses at Sky Harbor,” the statement read. “This would also allow Uber and Lyft to join the already 650 ground transportation companies and 4,000 permitted drivers.”

Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton said the deal could be approved in the next couple of months.

“I believe we are nearing an agreement, and I expect a resolution will be before the city council within the next couple of months,” he said.

However, Stanton said the deal must be carefully constructed, as there is a lot more on the line than a simple pickup.

“It’s also important to do this right, not just quickly,” he said. “Any arrangement for ride-sharing pick-ups at the airport must both ensure homeland security and that people with disabilities have access to the same level of service.”

Though he has no authority over the airport, Gov. Doug Ducey called on Phoenix officials Monday during his State of the State address to remove “unnecessary regulations” placed on rideshare services.