Airport parking 'stacked against' ordinary traveller

MP RAISES CONCERN OVER FINES AND SYSTEM SHE SAYS IS 'UNFAIR' ON THOSE USING EAST MIDLANDS

- By TOM MACK

“SERIOUS concerns” have been raised over “unfair” parking fines at East Midlands Airport, with an MP claiming the current system is “stacked against ordinary travellers”.

Labour MP Amanda Hack raised fears over £100 fines for people who forget to pay after dropping off passengers at the airport, claiming that the majority who use it travel by car and should be able to pay at the time.

She said in the House of Commons that many passengers had no realistic travel alternative and that the system meant people who forgot to pay online after visiting were being hit by high fines.

The airport has double red lines preventing drop-offs anywhere other than in the paid-for car park.

Ms Hack, whose North West Leicestershire constituency covers the site, said: “The airport's limited public transport options, including a train station located a 10-minute drive away and an on-demand bus service, make car travel unavoidable for many, particularly those travelling with children, heavy luggage or during early morning or late night hours.

“As a result, an estimated 91% of passengers arrive at East Midlands Airport by car.