Uber Drivers Tried To Do Business At JFK Airport

By April Kirstin Chua | Jan 30, 2017 03:53 PM EST

The hashtag Delete Uber trended on twitter after customers' notice that Uber drivers tried to the business at JFK airport during a taxi strike. A lot of the customers vented out their frustrations and posted evidence of them deleting the app in various social media platforms.

In a statement posted on their Facebook page, NY Taxi Workers Alliance called the attention of all drivers to join the protest at JFK airport in support of all those who are currently being detained at the airport because of Trump's "unconstitutional executive order." However, many users noticed that Uber drivers were servicing riders during the strike. Furthermore, the company posted a tweet saying that it had turned off surge pricing which usually happens during periods of increased demand. Due to this, people started deleting the Uber app from their phones and posted screenshots on their social media accounts, as evidence.

In an emailed statement to Business Insider, Uber said "We're sorry for any confusion about our earlier tweet - it was not meant to break up any strike," and that the company only wanted people to know that they can use Uber at normal prices while commuting to and from JFK airport. Meanwhile, the company's current issue seemed contrary to what CEO Travis Kalanick promised last Sunday on his Facebook page. He announced and sent an email to drivers affected by the ban that Uber will create a $3 million defense fund to help them with immigration and translation services. Kalanick believes Trump's actions to be unjust and that Uber has always stood up for what is right.

Aside from the legal defense fund, Uber also pledged to provide 24/7 legal support for drivers who are trying to get back into the country. Furthermore, the company will compensate drivers for their lost earnings and vowed to urge the government in reinstating the right of U.S. residents to travel, whatever their country of origin. Previously, Kalanick was criticized for his involvement in a Trump advisory council comprised of prominent CEOs from tech and business.

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