Overview

• Drivers must pay a £5 fee online within 24 hours of using the drop-off zone or incur penalty charges of up to £200.
• Peter Walsh, 80, received two £100 penalties totalling £200 after brief stops at Terminal 1 without payment and has called the scheme a “money making scam.”
• Many motorists report that existing signage failed to alert them to the online payment requirement in the absence of barriers.
• Manchester Airport and APCOA argue barrier-free zones improve traffic flow, stress that signage is prominent and highlight a 14-day appeals process.
• Affected drivers are demanding reinstated barriers, flashing lights or clearer warnings to prevent further unexpected fines.