Uber and Lyft drivers protested at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Dec. 23, demanding higher pay and expressing dissatisfaction with the current compensation structure.
According to FOX5 Atlanta, the rideshare drivers shut down their apps during peak travel hours. Over 20 Uber and Lyft drivers participated, emphasizing their concerns over what they consider unfair and unjust wages.
“As long as we protest, passengers will continue to be stranded, and maybe that will make an impact,” one driver told FOX5 Atlanta.
“I did a ride the other day, and she said she paid $102 for a 40-minute ride. I got $25, and that’s because I had a $5 bonus!” Deborah Williams, a Lyft driver, added. “It’s just ridiculous.”
In response to the drivers’ protest, Lyft issued a statement on Dec. 22, acknowledging the drivers’ concerns and emphasizing its commitment to enhancing the overall experience for drivers on its platform.
The rideshare company highlighted recent efforts, such as the introduction of the Upfront Pay feature in Georgia and other states. This new feature provides drivers with ride information, including earnings, before deciding to accept a ride.“Lyft takes the concerns of drivers very seriously and are regularly exploring ways to improve their experience on
the platform,” Lyft said in a statement, according to 11Alive. “Last year, we introduced Upfront Pay in Georgia and across the country, which shows drivers ride information and what they’ll earn before accepting a ride. We also provide drivers a weekly pay summary that shows a breakdown of their earnings and the total amount riders paid.”Uber also responded to the protest, telling 11Alive, “Earnings in Atlanta are more than $30 an hour when drivers are actively working on the platform. Drivers also receive fare and destination information upfront before they accept a trip and are fully empowered to decide what trips are worth their time.”
The drivers’ strike lasted over two hours, but it remains unclear whether the demonstration had any significant impact on travelers.
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