Ride-sharing apps have their place, but they’re not necessarily the best option for getting to and from the airport. We suggest you try a professional airport shuttle service. After hearing our reasons for making the switch, your next trip to the airport could be the best you’ve ever had.
Reliability
Professional shuttle services recognize the value of your time. You can trust them to arrive on time for your pickup.
You can also rest assured that they won’t need to spend time searching for the correct airport terminal. They’ve made so many trips to the airport that they know it well.
The same can’t be said of all ride-share drivers. They may have limited experience navigating airports. One wrong turn could cause you to miss your flight.
Availability
Ride-share drivers work on a schedule that best suits their personal lives. The time they choose to drive may not be when you need a driver. Imagine needing a ride during breakfast or dinner hours. Availability becomes even more of an issue on holidays.
But even if ride-share drivers are on duty, they’re not necessarily available. They could be too far away to pick you up or drop you off at the airport.
On the other hand, shuttles operate on designated schedules. They allow customers to make reservations well in advance. So, you’re always in complete control of when they will arrive.
Safety
Both shuttle services and ride-sharing programs perform a basic background check of their driver applicants to ensure safe driving records. However, typically, the shuttle service will conduct a more extensive screening that encompasses more than driving to ensure the all-around safety of their clientele.
A shuttle service’s concern for its drivers’ performance continues after hiring. The companies usually continue monitoring drivers to spot any issues that need correction. Drivers also must attend periodic safety classes.
Unfortunately, ride-share drivers aren’t required to try to improve their skills. As long as they maintain a clean driving record and receive acceptable customer reviews, they can continue as drivers. If they do not however, this can lead to restraints or even termination in the worst cases.
Vehicles
Ride-share drivers use their personal vehicles. The ride-share company doesn’t track the vehicles’ maintenance histories. As the vehicles age, reliability becomes even more of a concern.
Professional shuttle services insist on keeping their fleet in top condition at all times. They routinely retire automobiles after a few short years. Doing so lessens the likelihood of encountering a mechanical failure during an assignment.
However, if a vehicle does encounter difficulties, shuttle services always have a contingency plan to accommodate the client quickly. This strategy is standard procedure for professionals but a rarity for part-timers. Ride-share drivers likely won’t have backup plans and could find themselves and their customers stuck on the side of the road.
Comfort
Ride-shares tend to be casual arrangements. The vehicles are typically ordinary, with few amenities.
In contrast, airport shuttles consider luxury a necessary part of the customer experience. They know that the more comfortable they can make the shuttle, the less travel-related stress the passengers will have.