Kevin Smith, 68, from Clifton, was fined £100 for each of his two visits to the East Midlands Airport rapid drop-off zone, despite paying the £5 charge on the app both times.
He used the zone on June 30 to take his son to a flight, and again to collect him. Smith said he spent nine minutes in the drop-off area on the outward trip and six minutes on the return, with £5 deducted from his account on each occasion.
The drop-off zone is monitored by a barrier-free ANPR camera system, allowing drivers to stop directly outside the terminal. Parking costs £5 for up to 15 minutes, then £1 per minute up to a maximum of 30 minutes. Cash and on-site payment machines are not available; drivers must pay online or by phone before midnight the following day.
Payment rule behind the penalties
The Nottingham Post understands the fines were issued because Smith made his payment while still inside the drop-off area. A notification on the app tells customers to ensure they have left the forecourt before processing payment.
Smith told the Nottingham Post: "They took the money on both occasions for the rapid drop-off. We paid on the app, we followed the rules, the money left the account and then they had the cheek to give me £60 fines."
"This isn't just about me, but about people who might not have a phone or who are just stuck in a bit of a bubble. I think it's so unfair. It was my first time going to East Midlands Airport and it was very confusing. I think they need to make it a lot simpler for people."
Airport and operator respond
An East Midlands Airport spokesperson said: "We introduced an improved layout and clear signage last year which we're satisfied provides a better customer experience."
A spokesperson for parking operator APCOA said: "Customers are advised on the payment screen that vehicles must have left the drop off area before a payment is made. Customers then have until midnight the following day to pay for their visit."
Smith's first penalty has already been cancelled, and he is awaiting a response from APCOA regarding the second. He said: "I will not pay and I will fight it in court if I have to."
