Manchester Airport Addresses Congestion with Drop-off Charges

The UK’s third-busiest airport at Manchester is introducing a new drop-off charge this month in a bid to address congestion, which is currently increasing significantly. The new fee will be £3 for five minutes or £4 for 10 minutes. It is hoped that the new fee structure will reduce the number of vehicles entering the busiest parts of the airport site.

COO of Manchester Airport, Tricia Williams said, ‘Manchester Airport has seen a significant increase in passenger volumes in the past five years and is heavily investing in further growth and improvements to the customer experience, most notably through our £1bn transformation programme.’

Manchester Airport has said that it will use the proceeds from this new tariff to set up a public transport fund. This is in partnership with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Cheshire East Council and Transport for Greater Manchester, who will administer the fund.

A dedicated drop-off point has been created further away from the busiest terminal areas in readiness for the fee system launch, which will be serviced by a free shuttle to ferry passengers to their departure terminal. Support for measures to improve accessibility to the airport site will be considered, in addition to access to public transport.

Ms Williams also said, ‘We are committed to ensuring people can still be dropped off for free at the airport, which is why we have invested in the creation of a dedicated drop-off site and free shuttle service. The location of the site has been carefully chosen due to its proximity to all terminal and the motorway network. We have listened carefully to issues raised by passengers since announcing our plans and have been able to respond to many of the concerns raised. Staff will be on hand prior, during and after the go live date on Tuesday July 10 to assist any passengers who need guidance or help.’