Authorities launch an indefinite crackdown on illegal transportation services at Cancun Airport, targeting Uber vehicles and other unlicensed operators to ensure passenger safety and legal compliance.
On June 3, 2025, federal authorities kicked off an open-ended operation at Cancun International Airport aimed squarely at cracking down on illegal transportation services operating on airport grounds. The joint effort, led by agents from the National Guard alongside personnel from the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation (SICT), will run indefinitely to deter unlicensed providers who pick up tourists without permission.
From the first checkpoint early Tuesday morning, National Guard officers set up controlled inspection points at arrival and departure areas. They stopped vehicles suspected of ferrying passengers without the proper permits and inspected documentation for validity. Canine units accompanied the inspections, sniffing for illicit substances in vehicles—an added layer of security designed to address both illegal drivers and potential drug trafficking. Authorities also deployed handheld scanners and other advanced detection tools to support their efforts.
“Starting today, we will maintain these operations at every access point inside Cancun Airport,” said a ministry spokesperson. “Our goal is to ensure that every passenger who boards a vehicle here does so with a legal, registered provider. We’re not ruling out repeat inspections or surprise checkpoints.” Under Mexican law, only authorized taxi and shuttle services with airport permits can pick up passengers directly from airport terminals. Drivers who disregard this regulation face fines, vehicle impoundment and possible detention.
Local ride-hailing giant Uber immediately responded to the crackdown, insisting that its drivers have the right to pick up passengers under federal transport regulations. The company released a statement declaring it would continue unrestricted operation at the airport until presented with an official government directive prohibiting such pickups. Uber claims that its drivers pay permit fees and adhere to safety protocols, accusing authorities of unfairly targeting digital platforms in favor of traditional taxi services.
During the early-morning operation, officers stopped several black SUVs displaying Uber decals. In at least two cases, drivers lacked up-to-date permits required for commercial transport services. Officers towed those vehicles and issued citations. A handful of passengers, visibly annoyed, were forced to find alternative transportation after their ride was impounded. One tourist from Canada complained, “I booked an Uber ahead of time, and now I have to walk to the taxi line. I couldn’t see any clear signage warning that Uber pickups were prohibited.”
SICT representatives countered that clear notices have been in place for months at all airport exits. They stressed that fare negotiation with unregistered drivers compromises passenger safety and fair market competition. “We’ve received reports of tourists being overcharged by unregulated drivers,” said a ministry official. “Those drivers do not undergo background checks or vehicle inspections as required by law. This operation reinforces legal compliance and protects both passengers and legitimate service providers.”
Taxi unions, long dominant at Cancun Airport, praised the operation. Representatives argued that unauthorized ride-hailing services have undercut taxi operators and endangered public safety. “We welcome these actions,” said the head of the local taxi union. “Our drivers follow strict rules, pay the required fees and serve with government-issued credentials. Unregulated drivers don’t. It’s only fair to level the playing field.” However, critics argue that taxi unions have historically driven up fares and limited competition, pushing many travelers to seek more affordable ride-hailing options.
Cancun City officials have faced mounting pressure from the tourism sector to find a balanced solution. The airport serves over 25 million passengers annually, many of whom prefer apps like Uber or Didi to book rides rather than wait in long taxi lines. With high demand, any barrier to ride-hailing creates frustration for inbound tourists. Local businesses worry that protracted enforcement without clear guidance will tarnish Cancun’s reputation as a traveler-friendly destination.
In other major Mexican airports such as Mexico City’s Benito Juárez International and Guadalajara’s Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International, regulated ride-hailing zones allow drivers to enter designated holding areas after logging their ride in a government-sanctioned app. Passengers can then connect with approved drivers in those zones. Industry insiders say a similar model could work at Cancun but would require close collaboration between SICT, airport authorities and ride-hailing companies.
For now, Uber drivers still wait off-site in nearby lots, charging passengers higher fees to cover the additional distance. Officials argue that any future allowance for app-based pickups must come through an official bid and licensing process. “Everyone agrees on the need for modernized transport options,” said a National Guard commander overseeing the operation. “But no one can circumvent federal regulations. If Uber or any other company wants to operate here, they must go through the proper channels.”
Some unlicensed van and minibus operators—known locally as “pirata” services—also felt the impact of the crackdown. At least three white vans offering door-to-door service to downtown hotels were impounded for operating without permits. These vehicles often advertise via social media or word of mouth, undercutting licensed shuttles. While tourists appreciate the low fares, such operators do not carry insurance or submit their vehicles to safety inspections, increasing the risk of accidents.
Most travelers arriving on Tuesday found the new checkpoints efficient. Airport police coordinated with immigration officers to create a smoother flow, minimizing delays. An American family heading to Tulum said they noticed fewer hawkers and unauthorized drivers near the arrival hall and felt safer waiting for their authorized shuttle. “It was actually a relief to see the order,” commented the father. “We just want a reliable, safe ride after a long flight.”
Authorities acknowledge there will be “growing pains” as they refine the operation. They predict checkpoints and inspections could remain in place for several months until they see a marked decline in violations. SICT officials said they would hold weekly meetings with Customs and Border Patrol, local tourism boards and airport administrators to evaluate results and adjust enforcement procedures.
Meanwhile, Uber says it plans to formally request a meeting with Secretary of Transportation to negotiate official pickup zones and permit terms. “We believe there is room for cooperation to better serve Cancun’s visitors and protect local jobs,” said an Uber spokesperson. Until that happens, however, tourists and drivers can expect strict scrutiny at every turn.
As summer travel picks up, the indefinite operation will test Cancun’s ability to balance traveler convenience with legal compliance. Passengers will soon learn whether authorities can maintain order without alienating ride-hailing advocates or slowing down airport traffic. In the end, the outcome may set a precedent for how Mexico’s most important tourist hub manages the clash between traditional taxi unions and modern transportation platforms.
