An explosive undercover investigation has exposed a rampant culture of fare refusal among taxi drivers at Sydney Airport, leaving countless passengers stranded and sparking outrage among regulators.
Hidden camera footage obtained by A Current Affair reveals drivers blatantly turning away customers with shorter journeys, prioritising lucrative long-haul fares in direct violation of New South Wales transport laws.
Undercover Operation Captures Systematic Misconduct
Reporters posing as arriving passengers approached multiple taxi ranks at both domestic and international terminals requesting trips to nearby suburbs including Mascot and Botany.
In shocking scenes, driver after driver refused the fares, with one individual openly admitting: "We don't do short trips... we've been waiting in line for three hours." Another driver was captured on camera demanding "Where's the long trip?" before driving away empty rather than accept a shorter journey.
Passengers Left Stranded and Vulnerable
The widespread practice targets some of the most vulnerable travellers, including:
- Elderly passengers unable to navigate public transport
- Families with young children and excessive luggage
- International visitors unfamiliar with local alternatives
- Individuals arriving during late-night hours with limited options
One affected passenger recounted being refused by seven consecutive drivers before finally finding assistance, describing the experience as "frustrating and completely unacceptable".
Regulatory Breach and Promised Crackdown
Transport for NSW regulations clearly state that licensed taxi drivers must accept any fare regardless of distance when operating from designated ranks. Refusal constitutes a serious breach of licensing conditions that can result in substantial fines and disciplinary action.
A spokesperson for the department condemned the behaviour, stating: "We have a zero-tolerance approach to fare refusal. All drivers must accept any legitimate fare regardless of the destination."
Authorities have vowed to increase compliance operations and enforcement measures, including potential undercover stings and heightened surveillance at airport ranks.
Industry Response and Passenger Advice
Rideshare services operating from designated airport zones are similarly bound by acceptance requirements, though the investigation focused specifically on traditional taxi services.
Passengers who experience fare refusal are urged to:
- Note the driver's identification number and vehicle details
- Report the incident immediately to airport authorities
- Submit a formal complaint to Transport for NSW
- Consider alternative transport options while ensuring their safety
The exposure of this systematic misconduct has triggered widespread calls for industry reform and stronger protections for passengers relying on essential airport transport services.
