Recent incidents at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) reveal a disturbing rise in taxi scam, with travelers reporting cases of inflated fares, fake billing, and intimidation.
On May 31, Viveka Shenoy posted on X about his wife, Rajashree, being overbilled ₹2,308 for a 41 km airport taxi ride to JP Nagar, which normally costs ₹1,000–₹1,400. The driver did not provide a legitimate printed bill, instead showing a tampered digital receipt. Shenoy later discovered the receipt contained incorrect details. When he complained to airport staff, officials confirmed the involvement of an internal taxi syndicate.
In a separate instance, Janani Kumar from Electronics City reported being shown an Uber invoice after using a private airport cab. The driver falsely added late-night charges.
Samarth T, who took an Ola cab from Kalyan Nagar to KIA, was forced to pay ₹200 extra for toll, though the app included the toll fee. The driver threatened to abandon him, putting his flight at risk.
According to Bengaluru International Airport Limited (BIAL) and ADGP Pronab Mohanty, passengers should only opt for certified transportation services. Public announcements and digital alerts have been issued advising caution.
How to stay safe?
✅ Book rides via trusted apps
✅ Cross-check toll and fare details
✅ Demand printed or official digital receipts
✅ Report irregularities to airport police
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