Airports Commission OKs new rules for Uber, Lyft

Following months of discussion, the Metropolitan Airports Commission on Monday approved an ordinance that creates a legal framework for ride-sharing companies such as Uber and Lyft to operate at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.

MAC spokesman Patrick Hogan said these "transportation network companies" will be able to pick up and drop off customers "just as they do today." Travelers won't notice much difference, he said.

But for UberX and Lyft drivers, a new set of rules will go into effect Jan. 1. Drivers will have to apply for a $25 permit and get a decal for their car from the MAC to do business at the airport.

They must have proof of insurance that adheres to state and federal standards and have a background check performed by either the MAC or a commission-approved contractor. Their vehicles must be less than 10 years old or have under 150,000 miles on the odometer. Their vehicles also must be inspected by a MAC-approved vendor.

The MAC will charge $3 a trip for each time drivers drop off and pick up passengers.

The new rules come after three occasionally contentious public hearings over the past nine months that covered the ride-sharing ordinance, as well as changes in regulations for taxicabs.

Following the MAC hearing Monday, Carrol Chang, Uber Minnesota's general manager, wrote in an e-mail, "We are pleased to see the Minneapolis Airport Commission approve this measure that will allow both residents and visitors to continue enjoying the benefits of ride-sharing at the MSP airport. We look forward to working with airport staff to finalize operational details while continuing to serve riders, drivers and visitors in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area."

Chelsea Harrison, a Lyft spokeswoman, said the company is "committed to finalizing an official operating agreement with MSP and looks forward to Lyft continuing to be an affordable, reliable option for Minneapolis residents and visitors."

JANET MOORE