A man, Kevin Smith, expressed frustration after receiving £200 in parking fines at East Midlands Airport despite paying for his visits. Smith, 68, used the rapid drop-off zone to accompany his son for airport drop-offs and pickups, where he paid the required £5 fee each time.
However, the confusion arose when he later received penalties totaling £200 as the airport’s system mandates payment after exiting the drop-off zone, not during the stay. The airport operates a barrier-free ANPR camera system, allowing direct vehicle access to the terminal building. The fee structure includes a £5 charge for up to 15 minutes, with additional charges beyond that, capped at half an hour. Payments must be settled online or by phone before midnight the day after the visit.
Smith utilized the airport app for payment during both occasions, with the drop-off occurring on June 30. Despite spending nine minutes during the outbound visit and six minutes during the return trip, deducting £5 each time, he still received £100 fines per visit, later reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days.
In response to the fines, Smith emphasized that the payments were made via the app as per the rules, expressing disappointment at the situation’s complexity and calling for improved clarity for all users. The fines were issued because Smith paid while still in the drop-off zone, contrary to the app’s advice to process payment only after leaving the area.
An East Midlands Airport spokesperson noted improvements in signage and layout to enhance customer experience. The parking operator, APCOA, clarified that payment should be made after exiting the drop-off area, with a payment window available until midnight the following day.
While one penalty has been canceled, Smith awaits a decision on the second fine, stating his intention to contest it in court if necessary. The incident underscores the importance of understanding payment procedures to avoid penalties and ensure a smoother experience for all airport visitors.