Travellers passing through Gold Coast Airport who use Ubers (and there are a lot of those) will now be able to do so in style, with the launch of a dedicated waiting lounge in a new Uber pickup zone at the hub.
Queensland Airports is calling the new facility the world’s first Uber airport lounge. Whether that’s true, it should provide a more comfortable experience for passengers waiting for their Uber rides – assuming the space isn’t overcrowded.
Located inside the arrivals area of the terminal outside of baggage reclaim, the built-in space will feature lounge seating and amenities for arriving travellers. Passengers will then be able to meet their drivers right in front of the terminal.
Queensland Airports Limited Chief Operating Officer Marion Charlton said the collaboration with Uber aims to enhance the experience for customers at the Gold Coast gateway.
“Uber is now the largest commercial transportation service at Gold Coast Airport, so this is about making it more convenient for our customers when making their onward travel journeys,” she stated.
“As our passenger mix continues to grow and evolve, we’re proud to embrace technologies that provide our customers with the best possible experience, while also allowing us to be innovative with how we activate the airport precinct.”
Queensland Airports says the new pickup zone improves safety and accessibility in front of the terminal, where extra ramps and a dedicated accessible pickup bay have been added.
The new development comes in response to a growing demand for Uber rides at the hub as well as the need to reduce congestion on airport roadways.
“We’re excited to continue to partner with airports throughout the region to deliver a seamless travel experience for customers,” Uber ANZ Managing Director Dom Taylor said.
“Combining in-terminal amenities with an exclusive waiting lounge, in addition to the convenience of kerbside pickups, enables travellers to kick off their time in South East Queensland as smoothly and as efficiently as possible.”
Elsewhere, the taxi area at Gold Coast Airport has been moved to the front of the Southern Terminal Expansion, offering more room and flexibility for drivers as the area expands.
“For our customers who prefer to take a taxi, we’ve dedicated a brand-new area to them as well with seating and shade in front of our new terminal building,” Charlton said.
Meanwhile, the COO flagged other planned changes at the airport that are designed to improve the overall passenger experience.
“We’re continuing our innovation journey inside the terminal as well, as we prepare to roll out a new call to board strategy that encourages customers to relax in the departure lounge for longer before their gate is allocated shortly before boarding,” she said.
“With more than $500 million either invested or in the pipeline for upgrades at Gold Coast Airport, including our Southern Terminal Expansion, we’re upgrading our precinct and making changes and these changes are about ensuring we’re using our terminal space as efficiently as possible to allow for a smooth passenger journey.”
