For-Hire Vehicle drivers were given port-a-potties, after a yearlong battle at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York, one of the busiest airports in the world. The Port Authority of New York/New Jersey installed the port-a-potties in the FHV lot, where drivers wait to pick up clients.
The Independent Drivers Guild (IDG), which represents 50,000 drivers in the New York City area, worked on the issue for close to a year and stepped up the pressure six months ago with a petition with nearly 1,700 signatures.
“This step is a testament to the power of drivers coming together with one voice to demand action,” said Michele Dottin, IDG member and driver, in a statement.
Previously, drivers had to wait in the airport’s satellite lot for passengers and did not have access to public facilities.
Still, the IDG views the move as a first step, and is asking for a restroom or restroom trailer with running water. In addition to needing the water for hygienic purposes, the guild says it has Muslim drivers who need to wash their hands and face before praying.
The news is the latest victory for IDG, which persuaded Uber to add a tipping option to its app in June.
Source: MarketWatch
