UberX promoted via Calgary Transit app, despite being illegal in city
Transit says it's fixing glitch in its mobile software, which was advising Calgarians to use ride-hailing app
Calgary Transit says it's fixing a glitch in its mobile app that saw the software recommending UberX as a travel option to users on Friday morning, despite the city issuing several warnings the day before about the ride-hailing service being illegal and dangerous.
A user reported seeing UberX offered as an option in the app, among several suggested bus routes, and asked Calgary Transit via Twitter what was going on.
"Whoa that's crazy! I need to check the app on my phone now," an operator of the Calgary Transit account replied.
Shortly afterward, Calgary Transit explained the function mistakenly came through on its version of the app, which is based on software designed by a third party, Transit App, which has a partnership with Uber.
"Our team is removing that function," Calgary Transit tweeted.
UberX launched its ride-hailing service in Calgary on Thursday, which the city says violates its bylaws governing taxis and limousines.
City officials warned UberX drivers they could face fines of $4,500 for offering vehicles for hire and accepting fares without a proper taxi licence.
Mayor Naheed Nenshi also advised Calgarians against using UberX, saying he's open to updating city bylaws to open the doors for new market entrants like this, but until that happens the city can't be sure of their safety.
<a href="https://twitter.com/cklibabeth83">@cklibabeth83</a> Our team is removing that function. it shares same backend as TransitApp and their app enables it... our's shouldnt. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fixednow?src=hash">#fixednow</a>
—@calgarytransit