Philenews

Larnaca Taxi Drivers Threaten Strikes Over Ride-Hailing Apps

Published January 9, 2026, 10:28
Larnaca Taxi Drivers Threaten Strikes Over Ride-Hailing Apps

Taxi drivers in Larnaca are preparing for industrial action, protesting the unregulated operation of ride-hailing apps, particularly at the city's airport. They believe the situation has worsened despite previous meetings with authorities, where no substantial measures were taken to protect their profession. The taxi drivers accuse the ride-hailing apps of operating without permits and violating regulations, creating unfair competition and undermining legality. Specifically, they criticize the lack of control over vehicles from other provinces operating at the airport, as well as the failure to comply with taxi base regulations. The main demands of the taxi drivers are the immediate cessation of app activity at the airport for vehicles from outside Larnaca and the strict enforcement of taxi base rules by all apps. They consider the recent change to the voucher system (3-hour duration, written form) insufficient, as it is not accompanied by effective control and policing. The drivers have announced a phased mobilization program, starting with a four-hour work stoppage on January 13, 2026, followed by a 24-hour strike on January 20, 2026, and an indefinite strike on January 28, 2026, if their demands are not met. They insist they are not asking for privileges, but simply for the enforcement of the law and the restoration of legality.