A father faced £200 in parking fines at East Midlands Airport even though he paid during his visits, criticizing the system as unjust. Kevin Smith, 68, utilized the airport’s quick drop-off area to bring his son for departure and arrival, paying the £5 fee for both trips.

However, he was surprised to receive penalties totaling £200 as the system requires payment after exiting the drop-off zone, not while being in it. The airport operates a barrier-free ANPR camera system, enabling drivers to park directly outside the terminal.

Drivers are charged £5 for up to 15 minutes, with an extra £1 per minute thereafter, capped at half an hour. Payments must be made online or by phone before midnight the day after the airport visit, as cash or on-site payments are not accepted.

Mr. Smith used the app to pay for both occasions, with nine minutes spent during the initial visit and six minutes during the return, each deducting £5 from his account. Despite this, he received fines of £100 for each trip, reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days.

Mr. Smith expressed frustration, stating they followed the rules by paying on the app, but still received fines. The issue arose as payment was made while still in the drop-off area, as advised by the app.

An East Midlands Airport spokesperson mentioned improvements in layout and signage for a better customer experience. The parking operator, APCOA, clarified that payment should be made only after leaving the drop-off area, with a deadline until the next day to pay.

While Mr. Smith’s first penalty was canceled, he awaits a response for the second, maintaining his refusal to pay and willingness to contest it in court.