Uber, Lyft Drivers Should be Fingerprinted, Atlanta Airport Says

ATLANTA, GA -- Officials at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta are insisting that Uber and Lyft drivers be fingerprinted and subjected to background checks in order to pick up passengers.

But the companies -- particularly the San Francisco-based Uber -- is objecting, reports the Daily Journal.

Uber says it wouldn't be possible for its drivers to operate at Atlanta's airport, whose officials said earlier this month that they were moving toward allowing Uber and other ride-sharing services.

"While the Hartsfield-Jackson staff has recognized the benefits Lyft provides, the current plan as proposed will make it extremely difficult for Lyft to operate," according to a Lyft spokesperson. "We’ve had productive discussions with airport and city officials, and we look forward to continuing our work together with Hartsfield-Jackson to reach an agreement that is mutually beneficial for both consumers and the airport."

Airport officials say fingerprint background checks promote safety.

Under the proposal, ride-hailing, van, shuttle and limousine drivers would need to get fingerprinted and background checked under the state's Department of Justice screening system.

City News Service