Sidecar First To Get Operating Permit From San Francisco International

Hot contention exists between many cities and ridesharing services like Uber, and likewise between the different services themselves, with the two most notable companies — Uber and Lyft — frequently lobbing accusations against each other. While both are busy with their respective troubles, competitor Sidecar has slipped in to become the first of its kind to get an airport permit in California. The permit was issued by the San Francisco International Airport, and under it the company will start serving the airport within 30 days.

Sidecar recently made the announcement on its blog, saying that it is the first Transportation Network Company, more commonly referred to as a TNC, to be awarded such a permit in the state of California. It is no secret that airports are one of the biggest business zones for drivers, making this permit significant.

Beyond that, allowing Sidecar to operate sets a precedent in an industry where the companies are receiving severe backlash from traditional taxi cab companies, which are feeling the weight of the competition. These companies have worked hard to smear such services' reputations, and have thrown up legal battles across the nation.

Still, the permit comes with some restrictions. Shared Rides, in which customers double up in cars to split the fare and reduce the number of cars on the road, is not allowed at the airport. The reason revolves around the California Public Utilities Commission's claim that this part of the service is illegal, tying SFO airport's hands on the matter.

SOURCE: Sidecar