Nice Airport VTC Controls Intensify Amid MIPIM and Tourist Season
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport has seen increased police scrutiny of Vehicle-for-Hire (VTC) services, particularly as the MIPIM property convention and the upcoming tourist season drive demand for passenger transport. A recent operation on March 9, 2026, saw police surrounding the airport to enforce regulations and combat illegal practices.
Ensuring Fair Competition and Passenger Safety
Commissioner Abdel Bouzelmat, head of the airport border police service, explained the operation aims to “guarantee fair competition in passenger transport.” Authorities are focusing on issues like electronic marauding – the practice of drivers waiting for customers near the airport without prior reservation – which undermines licensed taxi services.
Regulations for VTCs at Nice Airport
Taxis operating at Nice Airport have specific authorizations for parking and passenger pickup. VTCs, however, are required to have a pre-booked reservation and are prohibited from waiting for customers on site. Some drivers have been found parking in nearby areas, such as car parks and gas stations, to circumvent these rules.
Police checks cover administrative documents, driver training, vehicle condition, and adherence to regulations, all to ensure passenger safety.
Increased Penalties for Violations
Since April 2025, Nice has been a pilot city for fixed-amount fines (AFD) targeting electronic marauding. Drivers caught waiting for customers near the airport face a fine of 500 euros, reduced to 400 euros for prompt payment, or up to 1,000 euros for repeat offenses. According to Commissioner Bouzelmat, “For a race that can bring in around fifty euros, a fine of 1,000 euros is dissuasive.”
Significant Increase in VTC Checks
In 2025, Nice airport police conducted over 45 control operations, often in collaboration with the prefecture and other services. Nearly 800 VTCs were checked, resulting in over 130 fines, including around ten criminal fixed fines.
“We control VTCs but it is not directed against them. Verbalizing VTCs which do not respect the regulations is also in favor of those who respect the law,” Commissioner Bouzelmat clarified.
Nationwide Implementation and Continued Vigilance
The fixed-amount fine system, initially tested in Nice, was implemented nationwide on July 1, 2025. Authorities are maintaining heightened vigilance as the influx of visitors increases with MIPIM and the tourist season.
“The message is clear: Nice airport is not an open door. You can only work there while respecting the regulations,” Commissioner Bouzelmat emphasized.
The increased enforcement has been welcomed by taxi drivers, some of whom expressed their support to police during the operation.