Uber to Introduce Shuttle Booking Service for Airport Rides

Uber is launching a new shuttle booking service for airport rides. This service will allow riders to conveniently book shuttles to and from the airport, offering a more affordable and efficient travel option, enhancing the overall travel experience.

‍New YorkCNN — Uber aims to make rides to the airport, concerts, or sporting events more affordable with the launch of Uber Shuttle. Announced on Wednesday, this new service allows users to book up to five seats in a shuttle from a central location to an event or the airport for less than a regular Uber ride. Shuttle ride costs won’t be subject to surge pricing, which often occurs when demand is high.

Riders can book their seats on shuttles, which will hold between 14 and 55 seats, up to a week in advance and will receive a QR code ticket for boarding. Uber plans to partner with local shuttle companies that have commercially licensed drivers to facilitate the service. Users will also be able to rate and tip drivers within the Uber app, just like any other ride.

Uber has previously tested shuttle services in India and as a feature for corporate customers. This summer, the shuttle service will launch for US consumers in select cities, including Chicago, Pittsburgh, Charlotte, and Miami, with plans for broader expansion in the coming months.

The Uber Shuttle announcement was one of several new features introduced at the company’s annual product update on Wednesday. Other new features include a discounted Uber One membership program for students and the ability for Uber Eats users to order from Costco even without a membership.

Uber Shuttle allows riders to book up to five seats in a shuttle to the airport, concerts, or sporting events for less than the cost of a regular Uber ride.

Together, these announcements are aimed at giving people more reasons to use Uber's products, focusing on affordability with group rides and other discounted offerings. This strategy comes as consumers are cutting back on spending due to higher prices for various goods, from groceries to clothing. Uber’s diversification beyond traditional ride-hailing has also helped it maintain its leadership position over rival Lyft.

“The simple act of sharing, whether it’s rides or groceries, makes your every day just a little bit cheaper,” Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said at the company’s product event in New York City on Wednesday.

Also among Uber’s announcements is a feature designed for caregivers, allowing them to book rides, order groceries, and purchase medical supplies and other over-the-counter items for loved ones. In some cases, the care recipient’s medical benefits can cover the rides and orders. A three-way chat will enable the caregiver, rider, and driver to communicate together. This feature builds upon a similar service that lets healthcare providers book rides for patients.

Uber will also introduce the option for riders to pre-book shared rides, an evolution of the former Uber Pool, allowing riders to split a ride with strangers going in a similar direction at a discounted rate. This move is inspired by the growth in app usage during commuting hours. The feature will initially launch in New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, San Diego, and Atlanta, with plans to expand to other areas.

“Sharing is an essential part of the future of cities at our scale,” said Camiel Irving, general manager of US and Canada mobility operations, on Wednesday.

Source: CNN