National Guard and Taxis Collude Over Transport in Cancun

Recently, Cancun has seen a series of incidents that suggest a concerning alliance between the National Guard and the local taxi union. The aim appears to be limiting the operations of Uber drivers. This not only affects the drivers themselves but also tourists and residents who are seeking safer, more affordable transport options.

A leaked video recently surfaced showing a National Guard member preventing an Uber driver from picking up tourists at Cancun International Airport. Meanwhile, an unofficial taxi driver is seen waiting to take the passengers, suggesting a coordinated effort between authorities and local transport operators to control the transport service.

Uber drivers’ spokesperson in Cancun, Águeda Esperilla, has repeatedly condemned these practices. She claims that the National Guard is ignoring a federal court order that permits Uber to operate in the area.

“The National Guard continues to misuse its authority, only encouraging further abuses at airport terminals,” Esperilla said in a video shared on social media. Local taxi drivers have also been accused of harassing and assaulting both Uber drivers and tourists.

In a recent incident, three taxi drivers were arrested in Puerto Morelos for threatening a tourist attempting to use a ride-hailing service. The drivers now face charges, and it has been suggested that their permits and licenses be revoked.

Quintana Roo’s governor, Mara Lezama, has voiced her concern over these incidents. She recognizes that conflicts between taxi drivers and ride-hailing services negatively impact Cancun’s reputation as a tourist destination.

“We will not tolerate these types of aggressions,” Lezama said, reinforcing that actions are underway to revoke concessions and licenses from those involved in violent acts. In August 2024, Uber was granted a court suspension allowing it to operate at Cancun International Airport without additional permits.

Following this decision, Uber informed its drivers that the airport area was unblocked on the app, allowing them to pick up passengers at the terminal. However, this has sparked controversy. Taxi concessionaires argue that the protection granted to Uber violates laws, specifically the eighth article of the Federal Roads, Bridges, and Transportation Law. This law states that a permit from the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation is needed to operate on a federal highway.

Cancun Airport transport operators have also expressed their dissatisfaction, arguing that Uber’s presence affects their income and that the platform does not provide sufficient guarantees to users. In January 2025, Uber announced the launch of “Uber XXL,” a transport option designed to accommodate up to six people traveling to and from Cancun International Airport.

Despite court authorization, Uber’s operation at Cancun airport has faced opposition from local transporters and authorities, creating uncertainty for both drivers and users. In Mexico, airport transportation services have traditionally been controlled by authorized concessionaires, creating a monopoly. This has been criticized due to high fares and limited competition. In 2025, Mexico City International Airport (AICM) was sanctioned for monopolistic practices.