LAX agrees to allow Uber, other pickup services to shuttle passengers

LOS ANGELES, July 16 (UPI) -- Los Angeles International Airport on Thursday agreed to allow web-based transportation services, like Uber, to provide service for passengers at the nation's largest airport.

Over the protests of taxi cab drivers, who view services like Uber as a threat to their business, LAX becomes the largest airport in the nation to allow such service, the Los Angeles Times reported.

The transfer companies may be allowed to start serving LAX as early as next month if it is approved by airport officials and the Los Angeles City Attorney.

The Board of Airport Commissioners approved the move as a means to better serve the thousands of passengers who travel through LAX every day. More than 2,600 taxi drivers are licensed in Los Angeles, which means the decision will almost certainly have significant economic consequences.

"Supposedly, this would be a convenience for some travelers," said City Councilman Paul Koretz, who has so far received thousands of dollars in campaign contributions from taxi companies and their owners who want to keep LAX in their corner.

Koretz also criticized the airport's decision in light of a judge's ruling Wednesday that recommended Uber pay a $7.3 million fine to the California Public Utilities Commission for allegedly violating state laws. The court also recommended Uber's operations be suspended.

Others, however, believe services like Uber and Lyft cause more good than harm.

"Customers want them," L.A. Area Chamber of Commerce official Ruben Gonzalez said.