Taxi Driver Online

Uproar over new taxi firm at Farnborough airport




TAXI drivers in Farnborough have described the arrival of a new transportation firm in the town as ‘a smack in the face’.

First Class Cars, a Luton-based executive ground transportation firm, is setting up at TAG Farnborough Airport.

First Class Cars said the decision was made for the increase in business during Farnborough Airshow and the London Olympics.

Taxi drivers in Rushmoor said the move could be harmful to trade in Farnborough, which they claim is being overlooked.

Robert Trowsdale, a driver for Rushmoor Taxis, said: “I know it is for business transportation, but why haven’t we got the local firms involved? First Class Cars are going to take the work there, I think it will have a negative effect.

“(Farnborough Airport owner) TAG has gone for First Class Cars, they haven’t given us the opportunity. They [First Class Cars] may have all the S-Class Mercedes’, but why not give the opportunity to a local taxi firm? I think it is a bit of a smack in the face. It is an insult, it is a big insult to the local companies.

“TAG has overlooked everyone.”

Graeme Marshall, an independent taxi driver in Rushmoor added: “It is a little bit worrying TAG has gone outside our borough. We have people in the borough who can do it. It is really out of our hands. They are a private hire company from Luton – there is nothing we can do about it.

“The taxi business is being moved in all directions.”

Mr Trowsdale said he had fears about the harmful effect on Farnborough as a whole.

“TAG’s message is it helps the community – but they are not helping the community, or anybody in the community,” he said.

First Class Cars would not require a Rushmoor taxi licence, as its vehicles are licensed by Luton Borough Council.

The firm will open its Farnborough base with a few cars, but said there are hopes to expand, which could potentially create jobs in the town.

Ian Oakman, operations manager for First Class Cars, said: “We will look to recruit some Farnborough people in the future. We decided what we will do is open it up with a couple of guys from up here [Luton], and get six to eight drivers by the end of the year.”

Graham Coate, managing director and founder of First Class Cars, added: “The decision to open at Farnborough demonstrates our continued focus on the executive aviation sector.

“With the upcoming summer events we know that there will be increased demand from existing and new clients, and we want to be ready for the increased business.”

First Class Cars will be based at Farnborough Airport, and will work primarily with people flying to Farnborough.

The airport has welcomed the Luton firm to the town.

A TAG spokesman said: “Farnborough Airport supports more than 1,000 jobs on site and many more in and around Farnborough.

“The airport generates millions of pounds in the local economy, benefiting many businesses in the area.”

source: http://www.gethampshire.co.uk/news/s/21 ... gh_airport

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Think of how stupid the average person is, and realize half of them are stupider than that.
George Carlin

I assume that all bookings are being made through a booking office in Luton.

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Grandad,

I would hope so, but post Cab Act 201? this will be the norm.

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IDFIMH

surely they would have an office at the airport otherwise they might find the customers a bit put out I think the type of market they are after expect a LOT for their money so staff to greet them at the airport and all the courtesy things like a waiting lounge drinks etc. perhaps his firm is offering all that but the local boys aren't

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lack of modern legislation is the iceberg sinking the titanic of the transport sector

Something tells me these local chaps aren't at the cutting edge of business and entrepreneurship

If they have a booking office at the airport then they are operating illigally because their cars and drivers are licensed in Luton.

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Grandad,

I think the OP mentioned Luton based company BUT there was no mention of Luton plated cars they would have to plate the cars locally

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lack of modern legislation is the iceberg sinking the titanic of the transport sector

Ian Oakman, operations manager for First Class Cars, said: “We will look to recruit some Farnborough people in the future. We decided what we will do is open it up with a couple of guys from up here [Luton], and get six to eight drivers by the end of the year.”

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Grandad,

drivers not cars and surely they would have to rebadge for farnborough ?

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lack of modern legislation is the iceberg sinking the titanic of the transport sector

They can use Luton cars and drivers as long as the bookings are taken in Luton. You read it your way and I'll read it my way. Maybe someone from Farnborough will be able to tell us where they are plated and badged.

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Grandad,

Even if the pick ups and drop offs are not in Luton ?

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lack of modern legislation is the iceberg sinking the titanic of the transport sector

So long as everything is licensed in Luton and the booking is taken in Luton they can pick up and drop off where they like

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Note to self: Just because it pops into my head does NOT mean it should come out of my mouth!!

ph can lawfully pick up anywhere, provided the booking is recieved in the area of license and both the vehicle and driver are licensed by the same authority.

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Think of how stupid the average person is, and realize half of them are stupider than that.
George Carlin

....and operator.

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Chris The Fish

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gdlyi5mc ... re=related

The only licence the article is specific about is the Luton-plated cars. And the second paragraph also alludes that the drivers are currently badged in Luton: