Kevin Smith, 68, said he was “confused” after being handed two £100 fines for using the rapid drop-off zone at East Midlands Airport, even though the £5 fee was taken from his account on both visits.
Mr Smith drove his son to the airport on June 30 and returned later the same day to pick him up. He spent nine minutes in the drop-off zone on the outward trip and six minutes on the return, and paid £5 each time through the app.
How the rapid drop-off zone works
The zone uses a barrier-free Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) camera system, allowing drivers to stop directly outside the terminal. Parking costs £5 for up to 15 minutes, then an extra £1 for every additional minute, up to a maximum stay of 30 minutes.
Cash and on-site payment machines are not accepted. Drivers must pay online or by phone no later than midnight on the day after their visit.
Why the fines were issued
The penalties were issued, the Nottingham Post understands, because Mr Smith allegedly made the payment while he was still inside the rapid drop-off zone. Mr Smith said he and his son paid using the app on both occasions and believed they had followed the rules.
He 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.”
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 firm 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.”
First fine cancelled
Mr Smith’s first penalty has already been cancelled. He is now waiting for a response from APCOA about the second fine and has said he will not pay it, adding he is ready to “fight it in court if I have to”.
