AUSTRALIA. Sydney Airport has launched a premium taxi and Uber booking solution at Terminal 1 in partnership with global travel services provider WeKnow.
Designed to streamline airport transfers, the service enables passengers to pre-book and pre-pay for taxis and Uber rides using an integrated platform.
Passengers can book their ride via multilingual digital self-service kiosks located in the international arrivals baggage reclaim area, or at one of two staffed WeKnow desks in the arrivals hall.
Daily on-site support is available from a multilingual team fluent in Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Filipino and Nepali, to provide more personalised assistance upon arrival.
The service launches with a premium fleet, comprising GM Signature and 13 Cabs Silver Service, as well as Uber. The company plans to expand to limousine transfers, shuttle services and public transport, with more options in the future, such as attraction tickets, city tours, concerts and theatres.
Sydney Airport Group Executive Commercial Mark Zaouk said, “The introduction of WeKnow reflects Sydney Airport’s focus on improving the end-to-end passenger journey.
“Arriving passengers want simple, reliable choices when they land, and WeKnow brings a range of transport booking options together in one place.
“By offering access to premium taxi brands like GM Signature and 13 Cabs Silver Service along with Uber in this first phase, the service provides greater choice, certainty on price and, for taxi customers, priority pickup from dedicated bays at our international terminal.
“Our vision is for WeKnow to offer a growing range of transport and concierge options over time, giving passengers genuine choice and flexibility when travelling from the airport, while also making it easy to book attractions and experiences across Sydney.”
NSW Taxi Council CEO Nick Abrahim added, “The WeKnow launch is a welcomed initiative by the NSW Taxi Council, making it easier for passengers to access their taxi, even before they head out of the terminal.
“Taxis play a vital role for passengers coming through Sydney Airport, whether it be tourists, visitors or returning locals, we want to ensure that you have a seamless and positive experience, each and every time.
“We commend Sydney Airport, WeKnow, 13 Cabs Silver Service and GM Cabs for all working collaboratively to deliver this exciting and innovative solution for members of the travelling public.”
Priority access to premium taxis is offered through two dedicated WeKnow pickup bays at the T1 taxi rank, reducing wait times.
WeKnow booking process
Passengers can book their ride at a WeKnow digital kiosk in baggage reclaim or at a staffed WeKnow desk in the arrivals hall.
- The service is prepaid, with customers paying the full fare plus a booking fee at the time of booking
- Passengers can book a taxi or Uber via the WeKnow platform
- Taxi bookings are fulfilled by GM Signature and 13 Cabs Silver Service vehicles with trained, regulated drivers
- Taxi customers receive a printed ticket with a unique booking code, plus optional SMS and email confirmation
- Taxi passengers proceed to the dedicated WeKnow pickup bays at the T1 taxi rank, present their ticket and depart
- Passengers can also book selected Sydney attractions and visitor experiences through the same platform
Subject to the results of the initial roll-out, the service may be extended to Domestic and other terminals, offering passengers a wider range of ground transport and tourism options.
Already established at key global hubs, including London Heathrow Airport, WeKnow offers passengers streamlined onward transport access, with similar operations supporting millions across Europe and North America each year.
WeKnow CEO Peter Buchanan said, “WeKnow is delighted to be partnering with Sydney Airport to bring our unique platform of physical and digital services to passengers and to create a world-class arrivals experience that includes a wide range of onward travel options as well as hotels, tours, attractions and more.
“With 25 years’ experience, WeKnow understands the pressures and challenges people can face when arriving in an airport and we seek to ensure they receive a warm welcome along with all the information and support they need.” ✈
