Key UK airport makes passenger parking change with ’24 hour’ pay alert | Travel News | Travel
Birmingham Airport announced big changes to its parking system by implementing a barrierless setup for vehicles using the Premium Set Down and drop-off zones – and warned there is a 24 hour cut off for payments. This innovative switch is set to begin with phasing out barriers at the Elmdon multi-storey car park, a change that started in February and will extend to the drop-off areas come Spring.
The airport is confident that removing these physical barriers will significantly ease vehicle flow and tackle congestion at peak times. They are adopting sophisticated Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) tech, allowing cars to exit smoothly and keep traffic moving.
Despite the more streamlined process, drivers must not forget to pay the appropriate parking charges within 24 hours of departure. Payments can be handled flexibly, through an AutoPay account, post-payment at home, or at the usual on-site payment machines.
Nikki Bains, Birmingham Airport’s Head of Planning, Transport and Strategy expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming transition: “Scheduled to launch this Spring, the new barrier-free system will simplify passenger drop-offs, enhance vehicular surface access by offering a smoother and faster experience. By minimising waiting times for drivers, it will enhance traffic flow and improve efficiency across the area.”
Birmingham Airport currently charges £6 for 0-15 minutes, £11 for 15-20 minutes, and £17 for 20-25 minutes at their Premium Drop Down site.
At the Drop Off Car Park prices are:
|
Duration |
Tariff |
|---|---|
|
0 – 10 minutes |
Free |
|
10 – 15 minutes |
£5.00 |
|
15 – 20 minutes |
£6.00 |
|
20 – 25 minutes |
£12.00 |
|
25 – 30 minutes |
£18.00 |
|
30 – 35 minutes |
£24.00 |
|
35 – 40 minutes |
£30.00 |
|
40 – 45 minutes |
£36.00 |
|
45 – 50 minutes |
£42.00 |
|
50 – 55 minutes |
£48.00 |
|
55 minutes – 1 hour |
£54.00 |
|
Each extra 15 minutes thereafter |
£6.00 |
The airport claims this move aims to cut queues, thereby reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality, in line with their goal to achieve Net Zero Carbon by 2033. They also plan to manage and reduce air quality impacts further.
“This further supports the airport’s drive to become Net Zero Carbon by 2033 and its existing plans to manage and reduce air quality impacts.”
Customers can expect more details about the project and registration for AutoPay soon. “Further information about the project, as well as how to register for AutoPay, will be made available to our customers soon.”
For more information on parking at BHX click here.
