Passengers arriving at Sydney Airport's T1 International terminal will have faster and smoother journeys when Uber PIN technology launches on 24 September.
The new feature comes as Sydney Airport is set to introduce a dedicated kerbside Uber pick-up zone closer to the international terminal exit to reduce wait times, relieve congestion and improve pedestrian safety ahead of the school holidays.
Uber PIN allows passengers arriving at Sydney Airport's T1 International terminal to request an Uber X by generating a code on their smartphone, heading to the new Uber pick-up zone and getting right in, rather than having to request, wait and locate their driver. While the current pick-up area is up to 200 metres from the terminal doors, the new spot will be located less than 20 metres away.
The upgrade puts Sydney Airport in line with other global airports, including Melbourne Airport, where the technology has been found to slash wait times in half for Uber customers, reduce crowding and enhance passenger and driver satisfaction.
Journeys from the airport in rideshare vehicles have surged by more than 10 per cent in the last year alone, now representing around half of all pick-ups.
To allow the 12-month trial to go ahead, the NSW Government has listened to key stakeholders calling for the change, putting in place an exemption to existing point to point transport regulation.
The Point to Point Transport Commissioner is requiring a number of controls to keep people safe, including new signage and barriers, a traffic supervisor, and clear reporting of trial outcomes.
Based on data and modelling, Sydney Airport is confident the new pick-up zone and PIN technology will result in better traffic flow and more organised pick-ups. The changes also mean Uber drivers have a dedicated area to wait for passengers, which is expected to reduce congestion and parking in local roads and streets.
Existing rideshare arrangements at domestic terminals will remain the same. If the trial is successful, the government will consider amending the regulation on an ongoing basis, with the option to roll out Uber PIN and dedicated pick-up zones at other terminals.
Taxi ranks, other rideshare operators and private vehicle areas will continue to operate as normal.
New Sydney Airport pick-up maps can be access here.
Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said:
"Terminal 1 is Australia's global gateway, and we want to roll out the welcome wagon for our international guests and returning travellers.
"After a long flight the last thing you want is a long wait. It's unacceptable that people are copping chaos to get a ride, especially early in the morning or late at night with heavy luggage in tow.
"This is about giving people as many transport choices as possible after a long flight. Whether you're taking an Uber, a taxi, or a train from the airport - the last leg of your trip should be as smooth as possible.
"Everyone deserves to enjoy all the great things Sydney has on offer, and I'm pleased to announce an additional way the NSW Government is helping to improve the airport experience."
Point to Point Transport Commissioner Anthony Wing said:
"Safety is my priority, and I have directed Uber to put in place a number of controls ahead of the Uber PIN 12-month trial at Sydney Airport T1.
"Throughout the 12-month trial, my team will continually monitor safety and compliance at the pick-up zone.
"Our regulatory framework is intended to allow service providers the flexibility to respond to consumer preferences by adopting new technology and business models - while ensuring the safety of passenger services is not compromised."
