Kevin Smith, 68, from Clifton, was issued two £100 parking fines at East Midlands Airport's rapid drop-off zone, despite having paid the £5 charge for both visits. He used the zone on two occasions: to see his son off on June 30 and to collect him when he returned.
Mr Smith settled each visit's £5 fee through the app, with money deducted from his account both times. He said he was left "confused" when fines totalling £200 arrived. Nottinghamshire Live understands he inadvertently fell foul of a separate payment regulation.
Rapid drop-off rules
The barrier-free rapid drop-off zone uses an ANPR camera system, allowing drivers to park directly outside the terminal. Parking costs £5 for up to 15 minutes, then £1 per minute for up to a maximum of 30 minutes. Payments must be made online or by phone before midnight on the day after the visit; cash and on-site barrier payments are not accepted.
Mr Smith reported spending nine minutes in the zone when dropping off his son and six minutes when collecting him, with £5 deducted from his account on each occasion. Despite this, he received £100 fines for both visits, each reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days.
Why the fines were issued
The Nottingham Post has learnt that the penalties were handed out because Mr Smith settled the parking charge while still positioned within the rapid drop-off area. A notification on the application alerts users that they must ensure they have departed the forecourt before submitting payment.
Mr Smith said: "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
A representative from East Midlands Airport 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 stated: "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."
What happens next
Mr Smith's initial penalty has been rescinded, and he is awaiting APCOA's response regarding the second fine. He declared: "I will not pay and I will fight it in court if I have to."
