Cancún, Mexico — A violent altercation erupted at Cancún International Airport when two groups of alleged "pirate" taxi drivers engaged in a physical confrontation at Terminal 4, witnessed by tourists and airport staff. The incident has raised concerns about the effectiveness of transport regulations and enforcement at one of Latin America's busiest airports.
National Guard Fails to Intervene Immediately
According to eyewitnesses, a group of drivers from Terminal 3 arrived at Terminal 4 to confront another group allegedly controlling the area. The brawl, sparked by a dispute over passenger fares, unfolded despite the presence of National Guard officers, who did not intervene immediately or make any arrests.
New regulations aimed at standardizing transport services at the airport—including unified fares, verification operations, and oversight by the Quintana Roo Mobility Institute (Imoveqroo)—took effect in March 2025. However, conflicts between licensed and unlicensed operators persist.
Continued Harassment of Ride-Hailing Drivers
The operation of unlicensed taxis, commonly referred to as "pirate" cabs, has been a recurring issue, with reports of harassment, blockades, and aggression—particularly against drivers working for digital platforms like Uber and InDrive. Despite legal authorization for these platforms to operate at the airport, drivers continue to face intimidation.
Similar clashes have occurred in recent years, both inside and outside the airport, involving licensed taxi drivers, independent operators, and informal transport providers. Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the latest incident, fueling perceptions of impunity among travelers and residents.
Airport Reputation at Stake
Cancún International Airport is among the busiest in Latin America and serves as the first impression for thousands of tourists arriving daily in the Mexican Caribbean. Incidents like this not only damage the destination's image but also create an atmosphere of insecurity.
Business organizations, including the Caribbean Business Coordinating Council and Coparmex Cancún, have repeatedly called for an end to violent incidents and stricter law enforcement to ensure safe, legal, and orderly transport operations at the airport.
Authorities have urged travelers to use only authorized transport services, with posted fares available in the terminals. Ride-hailing platforms like Uber and InDrive remain viable options, provided pick-up points are prearranged.
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