British tourists in Spain warned of £500 fines amid growing problems with airport transfers

Tourists in Spain have been warned to choose their airport transfers and taxis wisely due to a growing problem with “rogue” drivers. Many UK tourists flying to Spain use taxis or airport transfers once they land to get to their hotel and back at the end of their holiday.

All taxis in Spain must be registered. However, a growing number of unlicensed taxis have appeared at busy airports such as Malaga. Using an unofficial taxi service is illegal in Spain and could lead to fines of up to €600, or just over £500, for passengers caught riding in one.

Illegal transport companies mostly operate in the country’s holiday hotspots and often advertise themselves as legitimate businesses, making it difficult to know which ones are safe to use. Their presence has prompted complaints from legitimate taxi drivers, with one company in Malaga complaining that around 40 “pirate” vehicles have been spotted at Malaga Airport.

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The trade in unlicensed taxis has reached such an extent they are now said to be operating with “scouts” targeting unsuspecting tourists. Guillermo Díaz, an experienced taxi driver, told Sur in English that unlicensed drivers often look for passengers who make longer journeys and have informants who warn them when the police arrive.

He claimed that some unofficial drivers had proved “aggressive” when confronted and called for more police inspections and security guards to be placed at the entrance to deter fake taxi firms. Marbella, Estepona or Gibraltar are some of the destinations that are said to be most targeted by unlicensed transport firms.

Britain’s Foreign Office has warned tourists to use only authorized companies when booking a taxi or airport transfer. Government advice says: “Only use official registered or licensed taxis or reputable transport companies you recognise. Licensing regulations differ in Spain and in some cities advance booking is required.

“Passengers caught using unlicensed taxi services are liable for fines of up to €600. Make sure you book your taxi or airport transfer through an authorized company.”

If tourists are not sure if the taxi company is legitimate, they can ask the company to send a copy of their registration to verify their authenticity before booking. If a transfer company asks to meet you anywhere other than the designated airport pick-up area, outside the arrivals terminal, it is likely that they may be unregistered. Also, their vehicles will not be insured for passenger liability coverage.

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