A cab company is warning holidaymakers not to book airport transfers directly with individual drivers, saying it could leave passengers uninsured if something goes wrong.
With many families preparing to travel during the half-term break, Barkerend Private Hire says some people are choosing to arrange journeys directly with drivers in a bid to save money, without realising the potential risks.
Warning over direct bookings
Tawheed Ghazanfar, director of Barkerend Private Hire Ltd, said passengers should always book through a licensed private hire operator or reputable travel company.
He said: “When booking your airport transfer this half-term, always book through a licensed private hire operator or reputable travel company, rather than arranging journeys directly with individual drivers.”
Mr Ghazanfar said many passengers may be unaware that bypassing a licensed operator could have implications for their insurance cover.
He said: “Many passengers may not realise that booking a private hire driver directly, outside a licensed operator, could mean their journey is not legally booked and may not be covered by the appropriate hire-and-reward insurance.”
'A false economy'
Mr Ghazanfar said attempts to cut the cost of airport transfers can sometimes prove more expensive in the long run if passengers are not adequately protected.
He said: “We want families travelling abroad to enjoy their holidays knowing their transport has been arranged safely, legally and professionally.”
The warning comes as demand for airport transfers increases during the school holiday period, with many families travelling abroad for half-term breaks.
Advice for holidaymakers
Mr Ghazanfar said customers should ensure they are booking through properly licensed firms rather than making private arrangements directly with drivers.
He also stressed that using a licensed operator does not necessarily mean paying higher prices.
He said: “Booking through a licensed local company doesn't have to cost more. At Barkerend, we aim to provide affordable airport transfers while maintaining high standards of safety and reliability.”
Barkerend Private Hire, which has operated in Bradford since 1988, offers airport transfers to destinations across the UK and provides a range of vehicles including cars, minibuses and wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
Mr Ghazanfar added: “Our message is simple. Book through a licensed operator, travel safely and enjoy your holiday with confidence.”