Is the New Eleven Dollar Round-Trip Rideshare Fee at Boston Logan Airport Worth the Convenience of Curbside Pickup? – Travel And Tour World

Starting July 2025, travelers using Uber or Lyft to get to or from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) will see a noticeable increase in their rideshare charges. According to the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport), the new agreement with the two major rideshare operators will raise the current $3.25 surcharge for drop-offs and pick-ups to $5.50 each way, resulting in an $11 round-trip fee. This change, although a hike from the current rate, comes in lower than Massport’s previously proposed $7.50 per ride, which would have made Logan the most expensive Uber-serviced airport in the U.S.

Why the Change?

As outlined in Massport’s official March 2025 press release, the fee increase is part of a broader initiative to modernize Logan Airport’s ground transportation policies, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance curbside access and convenience for travelers. The authority emphasized that the new structure balances the need for revenue generation and infrastructure investment with passenger satisfaction and transportation equity.

Historically, Logan has limited curbside rideshare pick-ups, directing travelers to centralized ride-app zones away from terminal entrances. These designated zones were introduced in 2019 to mitigate congestion but were met with mixed reviews from travelers citing inconvenience and increased wait times.

Curbside Pick-Up Returns

One of the most significant improvements under the new agreement is the return of curbside drop-off and pick-up at all Logan terminals. This feature, long requested by travelers and drivers alike, aims to streamline airport arrivals and departures, especially for those with luggage or accessibility needs. Previously, Logan’s rideshare protocol required app-based pickups from the Central Parking Garage or designated external lots, often adding time and confusion to the travel experience.

Massport believes the higher surcharge will help manage increased demand at curbside areas while generating funds to support infrastructure upgrades, traffic mitigation technologies, and terminal improvements.

More Affordable Options: Shared Rides Introduced

Both Uber and Lyft have confirmed that they will introduce a shared ride option at Logan Airport as part of the revised agreement. Shared rides—where passengers traveling in similar directions share one vehicle—are generally more affordable and reduce the number of cars on the road. The fee for shared rides will be $1.50 per passenger, making it an economical alternative for solo travelers or budget-conscious passengers.

This initiative aligns with Massachusetts’ broader climate goals, as outlined by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, which encourages transportation providers to adopt low-emission and ride-pooling options to reduce traffic congestion and carbon output at major transit hubs like Logan.

Extra Time for Drivers to Improve Operational Efficiency

To further assist with smooth transitions during passenger pick-ups and drop-offs, Massport will allow drivers more dwell time at terminal curbs. This change is designed to support drivers who frequently find themselves navigating tight time windows to connect with passengers, particularly during peak hours.

Rideshare drivers will now have a longer grace period to complete transactions and queue for their next fare, improving turnover and reducing idle time. This change is especially helpful for Logan, which services over 40 million passengers annually, making it one of the busiest airports in the United States.

Context: Logan’s Role in Boston’s Transportation Ecosystem

Boston Logan International Airport is a critical hub not only for New England but also for transatlantic travel. As the busiest airport in Massachusetts and one of the largest in the Northeast, Logan connects millions of travelers annually to both domestic and international destinations.

In 2024, Logan saw a strong rebound in passenger traffic post-pandemic, with over 41 million passengers traveling through the airport, according to Massport’s annual report. With increased demand, the need for sustainable and efficient ground transportation solutions became more urgent.

The decision to revise rideshare policies was shaped by multiple factors:

• Terminal congestion
• Emissions control targets
• Customer feedback regarding convenience
• A need for equitable access across all travel budgets

Rideshare Popularity and Revenue

The role of app-based ride services like Uber and Lyft has dramatically reshaped airport transportation. At Logan, Massport data indicates that rideshare pickups and drop-offs accounted for over 30% of all ground transportation trips in 2024. The new surcharge is expected to generate millions in additional annual revenue, earmarked for curbside management improvements, roadway maintenance, and continued efforts to reduce congestion.

Notably, Massport’s move is in line with trends seen at other major U.S. airports like LAX, SFO, and JFK, where rideshare fees have also increased in recent years. However, Logan remains unique in reintroducing full curbside access for both drop-offs and pick-ups, which many other airports restrict.

What Travelers Can Expect in July

As of July 1, 2025, here’s what passengers should prepare for:

• $5.50 surcharge for each rideshare drop-off or pick-up (totaling $11 round-trip)
• $1.50 flat fee for shared ride options (Uber Pool or Lyft Shared)
• Curbside access restored at all terminals for both drop-off and pick-up
• Extended time for rideshare drivers to complete transactions and secure new fares
• Continued use of Uber and Lyft apps to schedule rides as normal

Rideshare users will be notified of the new pricing via in-app alerts closer to the implementation date. Uber and Lyft have committed to working with Massport on driver and customer education to ensure a smooth transition.

Travelers’ Reactions and Public Feedback

While some travelers have expressed frustration about the fare increase, many have praised the return of curbside access as a major convenience improvement. “It’s a trade-off,” says Boston resident and frequent flyer Alicia James. “I’d rather pay a little more and get dropped off at the door, especially in bad weather.”

Transportation advocacy groups, including Massachusetts Public Interest Research Group (MASSPIRG), have supported the shared ride initiative as a step in the right direction toward sustainable and equitable airport travel.

Conclusion: A Balance Between Access and Efficiency

Massport’s decision to update Logan’s rideshare policy reflects a broader push for modernization, sustainability, and improved customer experience. By raising the fee but enhancing access, introducing shared options, and giving drivers more time, the authority seeks to address long-standing concerns while planning for future growth.

Travelers flying in or out of Logan International Airport this summer should budget for the fee increase and consider taking advantage of the new shared ride option to save money. For the latest updates and travel alerts, visit the official Massport website or follow their alerts via boston.gov.