Tough times for illegal taxis at Muscat Airport

Unauthorized passenger transport by illegal taxis to Muscat International Airport will attract a fine of RO 200, according to the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MoTC).

In an attempt to regulate the sector and crack down on illegal taxis, the ministry has placed a huge signage at the airport warning of a fine on illegal taxis.
According to the ministry sources, Mwasalat is the licensed operator to pick up passengers from the airport.

“Orange and white taxis and private vehicles are free to drop customers, but only Mwasalat is allowed to pick up the arriving passengers.”

The sources, however, said a passenger arriving at the airport is free to be picked by his relative, friend or colleague. “There is no restriction.”

Many private transporters were reportedly fined after they were found operating without a license. “One transporter was fined RO 235 for operating an unauthorized passenger pick-up service,” said sources.

The crackdown has sparked rumors that even private vehicles are subject to scrutiny. An ROP official clarified that Oman’s laws are not against personal freedom. “Private vehicles can drop or pick up passengers to and from the airport as long as they are friends or relatives. The service is not for any monetary benefit.”

Action will be initiated against those who transport people or goods on commercial basis, he said.

Mohammed a Balushi, a senior private sector executive who frequently travels abroad, said that public transport has been upgraded with the opening of new airport. “If passengers find the licensed taxi services unaffordable, they can opt for bus services which operate 24/7.I keep my vehicle at a parking lot in Al Khuwair and take the Mwasalat airport bus.”

Mwasalat has revised fares for its airport taxi services from January 1. New prices are as follows: Fares start at RO 2.5 from Sunday to Thursday (6 am to 10 pm) and onwards of 300 baisas per km for a distance of up to 30 km.
Earlier, flag drop rates were RO 3 and onward of 400 baisas up to 30 km.

Airport bus fares continue to cost 500 baisas per ticket.

This article originally appeared on: http://www.omanobserver.om/ro-200-fine-for-illegal-passenger-transport-from-muscat-airport/