News Summary
The Orange County Supervisors have approved a five-year agreement for Turo to operate at John Wayne Airport, expected to generate $3.6 million in revenue by 2030. The peer-to-peer vehicle-sharing service began a successful pilot program in August 2023. With about 1,890 transactions already recorded and positive feedback from travelers, the collaboration aims to enhance transportation options at the airport and contribute to ongoing infrastructure improvements costing over $688 million.
Santa Ana, California – Orange County Supervisors have successfully approved a five-year licensing agreement for Turo to operate at John Wayne Airport (JWA), a move anticipated to generate approximately $3.6 million in revenue for the county by the year 2030. This agreement formalizes an ongoing pilot program that began in August 2023 and is set to conclude in summer 2024.
Turo is a peer-to-peer vehicle sharing service that enables travelers to reserve privately-owned vehicles through the Turo app. Vehicle owners deliver their cars to users for a fee, and in exchange, the county receives 10% of the gross receipts from all transactions that take place at the airport. Since the pilot program commenced, the county has already earned around $1.2 million from Turo operations.
Approximately 1,890 transactions involving visitors to JWA and vehicle owners from the Orange County area have taken place since the initiation of the trial period. The designated drop-off and pick-up locations for the vehicles are specified in garages A1, A2, B2, and C, which streamline the process for users.
Airport officials began discussions with Turo in 2022 after it was discovered that Turo was initially operating without permission. Following this engagement, a short-term contract was established to allow Turo to provide services at JWA, leading to the official pilot program that has since been extended due to its success.
Turo’s platform connects approximately 3.5 million active users and operates at around 150 airports nationwide, reflecting its widespread appeal. While advanced bookings are encouraged to secure vehicles, rentals can also be arranged on short notice if vehicle owners are available, offering flexibility to travelers.
Feedback from airport guests has indicated a positive reception for Turo’s service, with many citing it as a viable alternative when traditional rental services are fully booked. Turo’s operations incur no direct costs to JWA, which means that all revenue generated contributes positively to the county’s funds, as highlighted by O.C. Supervisor Katrina Foley. This creative revenue-generating venture aligns well with ongoing improvements planned for JWA aimed at enhancing various operational aspects.
These improvements are projected to exceed $688 million and will impact runways, parking infrastructures, baggage claim areas, and concessions at the airport. The addition of income from Turo complements these enhancements, enabling the county to finance necessary upgrades effectively.
The approval of the licensing agreement not only solidifies a growing partnership between Turo and JWA but also evidences the county’s commitment to providing innovative transportation solutions for travelers. As Turo continues to grow its footprint in the car-sharing space, its collaboration with JWA is set to enhance the overall travel experience for guests arriving at the airport.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: County Enters 5-Year Contract with Turo
- NerdWallet: Pros and Cons of Turo
- ABC7: Car Fraud Scam Involving Turo
- NerdWallet: Rental Car Alternatives
- Fox 5 Vegas: Turo Allowed at Las Vegas Airport
- Wikipedia: Vehicle Sharing
- Google Search: Turo Car Sharing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Car Rental
- Google News: Turo Airport Contract
