Booking an airport taxi seems simple. But the difference between a smooth, stress-free transfer and a nightmare journey often comes down to the questions you ask before you book.
Many travellers assume all taxi services are the same. They are not. This guide covers the 10 most important questions you should ask before booking your airport transfer in 2026.
Why It Matters: Metered taxis can increase your fare by 30-50% in traffic. Uber surge pricing can double your fare. A fixed price means you know the exact cost before you book .
✅ What to Look For: A fixed, transparent price confirmed at the time of booking.
Why It Matters: Flights get delayed. Without flight tracking, no one is waiting for you. With flight tracking, your driver adjusts automatically .
✅ What to Look For: A service that monitors your flight in real-time and adjusts pickup automatically.
Why It Matters: After a long flight, searching for your driver in a car park is the last thing you want. A meet and greet means your driver waits inside arrivals with a name board .
✅ What to Look For: Driver waits inside the arrivals hall with a name board.
Why It Matters: Unlicensed drivers have no background checks and no insurance . Licensed drivers have passed DBS background checks and hold proper insurance .
✅ What to Look For: Licensed drivers with DBS checks and proper insurance.
Why It Matters: A standard saloon does not fit 4 passengers, 4 suitcases, and 2 child seats .
✅ What to Look For: Vehicle options: saloon, estate, executive, or 8-seater MPV.
Why It Matters: UK law requires child seats for passengers under 135cm. Many services do not offer them .
✅ What to Look For: Infant, toddler, and booster seats available on request.
Why It Matters: If your flight is delayed and you haven't booked with flight tracking, no one is waiting . You will be left to find alternative transport at the last minute.
✅ What to Look For: Flight tracking with 60 minutes free waiting time.
Why It Matters: Hidden fees for airport drop-off charges, congestion charges, and ULEZ can add £10-£20 to your fare .
✅ What to Look For: All charges included in the fixed price.
Why It Matters: If something goes wrong, you need to reach someone immediately. Limited support means you are left to figure things out on your own .
✅ What to Look For: 24/7 customer support availability.
Why It Matters: Cancellation fees can be a surprise. Read the policy before booking .
✅ What to Look For: Clear cancellation policy with reasonable notice required.
| Feature | Quality Transfer Service | Unvetted Service |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed price | ✅ Yes | ❌ Meter or surge |
| Flight tracking | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Meet and greet | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Licensed DBS-checked drivers | ✅ Yes | ❌ Not guaranteed |
| Vehicle choice | ✅ Yes | ❌ Whatever is available |
| Child seats | ✅ Yes | ❌ Not guaranteed |
| 24/7 support | ✅ Yes | ❌ Limited |
✈️ Related Guides:
Why Pre-Book Your Transfer | How to Spot a Licensed Airport Taxi | Family Airport Travel Guide
Published August 2026 | Orange Airport Transfers – Professional Airport Transfer Services Across the UK