L to R: IATR President Matt Daus, Driver of the Year Peter Hardy with Rick Versace of A1A Limo
The International Association of Transportation Regulators (IATR) held its 37th Annual Conference in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida this past October 7-11, covering topics such as artificial intelligence, modernizing taximeters, improving accessibility, and innovative partnerships. Among the educational contention and regulatory bootcamps, this year’s conference featured IATR’s very first Mobility Shark Tank, where companies presented their ideas to a mix of representatives of regulators, academics, industry veterans, and investors. The show went full steam ahead, despite threats from Hurricane Milton.
While the conference was designed primarily to bring regulators from around the world together in conversation and share best practices among a wide variety of government agencies that license, regulate, and/or contract with for-hire ground transportation services, the event does have attract members of our industry to participate. Organizations like The Transportation Alliance (TTA), The Black Car Fund, and the Florida Limousine Association were represented during the event. TTA President Dan Reid was among the keynote speakers, where he emphasized innovation, the importance of non-emergency medical transportation regulations, and the need for technology to prevent fraud. A1A Limo was also recognized for proving transportation to and from the event’s gala.
L to R: Camille Kamga of UTRC, Lionel Morales of the Black Car Fund, Abubaker Azam of San Francisco International Airport, Ira Goldstein of the Black Car Fund, and Rick Versace of A1A Limo/NLA/FLA
Airport Challenges
Among the most pressing topics in our industry is curb access at airports. In a session moderated by Black Car Fund Executive Director Ira Goldstein, the panel featured Director of Landside Operations for Airport Services at the San Francisco International Airport Abubaker Azam, Director of the University Transportation Research Center (UTRC) at the City University of New York Dr. Camille Kamga, and Rick Versace Sr. of A1A Limo, who is also the president of the Florida Limousine Association and treasurer for the National Limousine Association. Goldstein highlighted the importance of equitable treatment for for-hire vehicles (FHVs) and taxis, particularly regarding curbside access and fees at airports, advocating for equitable treatment and negotiating with regulatory bodies.
Versace discussed the UTRC Limousine Airport Report authored by IATR President Matt Daus, which revealed that limousines make up just 12 percent of airport transportation but account for 75 percent of airline revenue due to their premium clientele. He emphasized the need for better signage, dedicated curb space, and equitable fee structures to improve the passenger experience for airport limo services. Versace also highlighted the importance of enforcing fair practices and ensuring that limos have designated areas to guarantee premium customers a smooth and efficient experience.
L to R: IATR shark mascot Jaws, Thomas Bania of Nexocité, Sam Evans and Jonathan Chaikin of GBM Capital, Angie De La Barrera of Arlington County, Virginia, Valerie Lefler of Feonix - Mobility Rising, Madonna Long of Vet Cycle, and IATR President Matt Daus
Sustainability: EVs & Congestion Pricing
With congestion pricing back in the news in New York City and the precarious future of electric vehicles hanging in the balance in the US, these were two hot topics covered at the conference. During the panel discussion, all sides of the congestion pricing model were addressed, noting that the model needs to be fair to all drivers while also tackling the need for public transportation improvements and balancing the quality of life for those in the city regarding traffic. Also discussed was the need for large-scale improvements on the EV infrastructure, which is lagging behind other areas of the world, including Europe and Canada.
Get Me to the Gala!
The IATR’s annual gala was held at the stunning Dalmar Hotel. The highlight of the evening was the live music featuring talented performers and several rocking and dancing regulators who kept everyone entertained late into the night, including IATR’s own Matt Daus.
Driver of the Year Award
Each year, the IATR selects a driver who has demonstrated exceptional performance and embodies the highest standards of professionalism in the industry. This year, Peter Hardy from A1A Limo, nominated by Rick Versace, was honored with the Driver of the Year award for his exceptional commitment to safety and outstanding community service. Hardy has consistently maintained a perfect five-star rating and an impeccable driving record, with no accidents or incidents throughout his career with A1A Limo.
Music City for 2025
IATR has announced that its 38th annual conference is heading to Nashville for 2025, which was voted by members. Dates and the host hotel will be announced soon, which will likely be the end of September or early October. The conference will feature engaging sessions, interactive workshops, and insightful panels focused on emerging trends in transportation technology, policy, and regulation. Participants can also expect numerous networking opportunities designed to foster connections and share best practices. Beyond the conference, attendees will enjoy Nashville’s vibrant culinary scene, lively entertainment venues, and renowned Southern hospitality, creating a memorable and enriching experience for all. Register now and renew your membership with significant discounts before December 31, 2024.
Renew Membership for Special Savings
Early-bird membership renewal is available through December 31, 2024, offering significant savings. Renewing memberships also unlocks early bird registration discounts for the 2025 conference.
- Regulator Membership: The early-bird annual fee is $700. Beginning January 1, 2025, the annual fee increases to $1,000.
- Associate/Industry Membership: The early-bird annual fee is $900. Beginning January 1, 2025, the annual fee increases to $1,500.
Visit iatr.global or join their mailing list info@iatr.global for more information.
[12.23.24]