Manchester Airport bosses announce major parking crackdown amid 'growing concern'

Bosses say the issue is a ‘growing concern’ with travellers being left with damaged vehicles or hefty bills by fraudulent operators in the meet and greet and park and ride sectors. 

As such Manchester has become the first UK airport to adopt the new Accredited Airport Parking Provider (AAPP) scheme. Set by the International Parking Community (IPC) it bids to give passengers greater security and peace of mind when leaving their vehicles and jetting off.

The bid to stamp out unethical practices includes making parking providers adhere to a stringent set of standards and enhanced consumer protection including safeguards against financial losses. The AAPP scheme will also have a clear complaints process.

Sue West, director of landside operations at Manchester Airport said: “It’s really important to us that we do everything we can to make sure that while our customers are on their travels they can focus on what they’re away to do, whether that’s relaxing or getting on with work – and that means not having to worry about their vehicles if they’ve parked them at the airport or in a car park nearby. 

“Being the first UK airport to adopt the Accredited Airport Parking Provider scheme means our passengers can easily find parking at the airport and go away with the  peace of mind that comes with knowing that their chosen car park has been inspected, that those working there have to uphold high standards and that in the unlikely event something does go wrong while they’re away there’s a straightforward  process. 

“It means that when our passengers arrive here they can park their car, relax and start their holiday at the airport.”