A father expressed frustration after receiving £200 in parking fines at East Midlands Airport, despite paying for drop-off and pick-up services. Kevin Smith, 68, utilized the airport’s rapid drop-off zone for his son’s airport visits, paying the required £5 fee for each trip. However, he was surprised to receive fines due to a regulation mandating payment after leaving the drop-off zone, not while inside.
The airport operates a barrier-free ANPR camera system, enabling motorists to park directly outside the terminal. The charge is £5 for up to 15 minutes, with an additional £1 for each minute thereafter, up to 30 minutes. Payment must be made online or by phone before midnight the day after the visit, as cash or on-site payment barriers are not accepted.
Despite Mr. Smith using the app to pay for both drop-off and pick-up, fines of £100 per visit were issued, later reduced to £60 if settled promptly. Mr. Smith criticized the situation, stating that the money was deducted from his account as per the rules, but fines were still imposed.
The penalties were attributed to Mr. Smith making payments while still in the drop-off zone, as advised by the app to ensure leaving the area before processing payment. The airport spokesperson highlighted improvements in layout and signage for a better customer experience. The parking operator stressed that customers must exit the drop-off area before payment and have until the next day’s midnight to settle fees.
While one penalty has been canceled, Mr. Smith awaits a response on the second, vowing to contest it in court if necessary. He emphasized the need for simplifying the process, especially for individuals without access to smartphones.