Uber, Lyft Approved For Atlanta Airport Pickup

ATLANTA, GA — Uber and Lyft were approved for pickup at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport by the city council on Monday.

Drivers with ride-sharing services will be able to pick up passengers beginning Jan. 1, 2017.

The proposal was introduced in February, but airport officials began insisting Uber and Lyft drivers be fingerprinted and subjected to background checks in order to pick up passengers. Both companies objected to that stipulation.

The proposal that was approved by the city council requires the companies to use privately provided background checks instead of fingerprints.

Monday's final vote before the city council was 14 to 1.

"We are pleased with the progress that has been made on this issue," said Adrian Durbin, Lyft spokesman.

“The City Council passed an agreement for ride-sharing at Hartsfield-Jackson that is largely consistent with Georgia’s comprehensive law and ensures travelers will have the access to Uber they have come to expect," said Luke Marklin, general manager of Uber Atlanta. "While there are some outstanding logistical concerns, we look forward to working with the airport on the details of implementation to ensure a smooth experience for both riders and driver-partners.”

Image via Lyft