Travel Firm Urges Manchester Airport to Revise Drop-Off Fees

A travel company has called on Manchester Airport and parking provider APCOA to reconsider their current drop-off fee structure. In an open letter, Zoe Harris, Chief Customer Officer of On The Beach, urged the airport and APCOA to extend the payment deadline for drop-off charges from 24 hours to 48 hours. This request comes as many travelers prepare for the busy summer holiday season.

Manchester Airport responded by clarifying that the 24-hour payment period serves as a minimum timeframe. In fact, drivers typically have until midnight the day after their drop-off to settle the fee, allowing for nearly 48 hours in many cases. The airport introduced a new barrierless drop-off system in March 2023, utilizing Automated Number Plate Recognition technology. This system enables drivers to leave the airport immediately without paying at a barrier, requiring payment online or via phone by the specified deadline.

Under the new structure, the drop-off charge is set at £5 for the first five minutes, increasing to £6.40 for up to ten minutes. Those who stay for the maximum of 30 minutes must pay £25. Failure to pay within the given timeframe results in a parking charge of £100, which can be reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days.

Passengers have reported difficulties with the new system. A couple from Widnes, for instance, shared their experience of forgetting to pay the drop-off fee after their visit on July 5, 2023. According to Manchester Airport, the updated system is designed to create a faster and more efficient experience for drivers. They also noted that the 24-hour deadline is not a strict limit; for example, if a driver drops off a passenger at 1:00 AM, they have until midnight the following day to pay, effectively extending the payment window to 47 hours.

Harris, in her letter, humorously addressed the issue, stating, “At On the Beach, we’re proud of our Manchester roots, and send tens of thousands of happy holidaymakers from Manchester Airport every year. But recently, there’s been a bit of turbulence, and not the kind that requires a seatbelt sign.” She emphasized the burden that the short payment window places on those dropping off travelers, many of whom are family or friends doing a favor and not necessarily aware of the payment requirements.

The airport argued that the new system enhances traffic management and reduces wait times, allowing drivers to avoid higher charges associated with longer stays. The spokesperson for Manchester Airport emphasized that the majority of passengers successfully pay their fees within the designated timeframe and pointed out that drivers can set up an AutoPay account to automate the payment process.

While On The Beach has reached out for reconsideration of the payment deadline, Manchester Airport remains focused on the efficiency of their new drop-off system. The airport has also increased signage in the drop-off area to assist drivers in navigating the new payment procedures.

As the peak travel season approaches, the dialogue between On The Beach and Manchester Airport underscores the challenges faced by both travelers and airport management in adapting to new systems while ensuring a smooth experience for all.