Massport has approved a fee increase for rideshare services at Logan Airport, set to take effect on July 1, 2025, following negotiations with Uber and Lyft.

Board member John Nucci acknowledged the unpopular nature of the fee hikes but emphasized their necessity to address growing air travel demands and potential public health risks from airport pollution.

Massport plans to invest $1.5 billion in ground transportation projects to enhance airport capacity and improve passenger flow, including the construction of a new garage at Terminal E.

Mike Vartabedian from the App Drivers Union highlighted the financial strain the fee increase will impose on drivers, many of whom depend on airport fares for their income.

Some passengers have voiced their dissatisfaction with the rising costs, particularly in the current economic climate.

Currently, rideshare services account for about 30% of Logan's passenger traffic, with projections indicating 9.5 million ride-app trips in 2025.

The agreement with rideshare companies includes the reintroduction of shared rides and a new scheduled high-occupancy vehicle service to reduce single-occupancy trips.

Uber and Lyft will enhance their 'rematch' feature, allowing drivers to accept new pickup requests while dropping off passengers, and will introduce shuttle services.

To alleviate congestion, rideshare companies will extend the time frame for drivers between drop-offs and new pickup requests.

The additional revenue generated from the fee increases is expected to support capital investments necessary to accommodate the anticipated rise in travelers at Logan Airport.

Drivers, including Cletus Awah, criticized the decision, claiming they were excluded from negotiations and expressing concerns that the higher fees could deter riders and negatively impact their earnings.

Massport aims to improve curbside access for rideshare users, although the future of central drop-off and pick-up locations remains uncertain.