News
Tension between private-hire vehicle drivers at El Prat over out-of-region licences
Aeropuerto Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat has become the scene of a growing conflict between private-hire vehicle drivers. In recent weeks, a group of local licence holders has begun expelling drivers operating with licences from other autonomous communities.
The source of the tension lies in the use of external licences and in practices that, according to some professionals, make it harder to control the service. These include the use of other people's accounts on platforms like Uber, Bolt or Cabify, as well as the alleged duplication of licence plates on different vehicles.
This situation has led to mistrust within the sector itself and is starting to affect travellers' experiences. At certain times, the number of available vehicles drops or things become more chaotic, making it harder to leave the airport.
The conflict is not limited to El Prat. It also extends to other parts of the metropolitan area, where competition between drivers and doubts about the legality of some operations are putting pressure on the service.
For those arriving in Barcelona, the impact is direct: less clarity in transport options and possible delays in transfers. At a key hub like the airport, any disruption quickly leads to changes in daily mobility.
The situation highlights a broader challenge: how to regulate a growing sector that combines technology, territorial licences and high demand. Barcelona is searching for that balance while the conflict remains unresolved and visible to thousands of passengers every day.