The Charlottetown Airport Authority recently announced an increase in taxi fares to and from the airport, marking the first price adjustment in approximately four-and-a-half years. Effective November 1, the fare for rides to or from Charlottetown will rise from $20 to $23, while trips to Stratford or Cornwall will increase from $30 to $35. For rides to other locations on the Island, the cost will be $2.50 per kilometre.
Doug Newson, the CEO of the Charlottetown Airport Authority, emphasized the importance of maintaining clear and consistent pricing for both drivers and passengers. He noted that taxi drivers have been facing rising costs for fuel, insurance, and vehicle maintenance, making it necessary to adjust fares.
Balwinder Singh, a City Taxi driver for three years, acknowledged the need for the fare increase due to escalating operating expenses, particularly fuel costs. While he believes the adjustment is reasonable for drivers, he expressed concern that passengers traveling to and from the airport will bear the additional costs.
Newson mentioned that feedback from drivers prompted the review of fare structures, with a focus on ensuring fair compensation for taxi services. Ride-sharing services remain unaffected by the fare adjustment, with Newson underscoring the balance between affordability for passengers and fair remuneration for drivers.