The Edmonton International Airport has awarded contracts to four taxi companies, after what they call a "rigorous" process.

Airport Taxi, Greater Edmonton Taxi Service, Co-op Taxi and 24-7 Taxi will all be shipping people back and fourth from the airport for the next five years, starting on June 30th.

The EIA says part of the agreement is that drivers from the four companies will participate in the airport's Taxi Ambassador Program, which includes modules on tourism and history, as well as safe driving components. The agreement means that there will be 56 hybrid vehicles serving the airport, with 21 wheelchair accessible vehicles in the combined fleet.

The EIA says awarding licenses to a number of brokers will also reduce the practice of "deadheading." (jk)