Manchester Airport under fire for poor policies and facilities for drivers

A Greater Manchester private hire drivers’ group has written a strong letter to Manchester Airport, demanding improvements in policies and conditions provided to drivers.

The Oldham Private Hire Drivers Association said poorly implemented drop-off and pick-up policies were costing drivers in fines, while facilities provided for drivers were unacceptable.

In particular, OPHDA said the recently introduced barrierless pick-up and drop-off system was not only poorly implemented but was “deliberately causing confusion and hardship for drivers”. 

The association said: “The lack of clear signage, guidance, or transitional support has resulted in hundreds of penalty notices—many issued even to those who have registered and paid via AutoPay. This is unacceptable.”

“It is clear that the airport is profiting from this confusion, deliberately exploiting drivers with an inadequate system and disproportionate fines. A transition period of at least three months should have been in place to allow drivers to adjust. For the first six months, any penalties should have been capped at a proportionate level of £40, reduced to £20 if paid within 21 days. The current £100 penalty charge is excessive, unfair, and appears to be a deliberate money-making mechanism—completely out of line with the principles being promoted by Mayor Andy Burnham and his team during trade meetings.”

In addition, the association said the private hire holding area for drivers waiting to collect passengers was “in a dire state”.

“There is nowhere near enough parking for the 200-300 drivers who may be in the holding area at any one time, leading to overflow on to the main road, causing safety risks and gridlock. Toilets are unhygienic, poorly maintained, and insufficient in number. There are no vending machines, no seating areas, and no shelter, despite drivers spending hours on site. The car park is in a poor state of repair, with large potholes and standing puddles that cause damage to vehicles and present safety hazards.”

OPHCA also said the current 90-minute waiting time limit in the holding area was “completely inadequate”. It said: “For 99% of the time, jobs are not available within that window, forcing drivers to exit and re-enter, increasing congestion and resulting in £50 overstay penalties. The previous 180-minute limit must be reinstated immediately.”

The association also said nearby airport hotels were also now charging for entry or reducing pick-up time to just 5 minutes, making safe and proper pick-up impossible.

“It is clear that the current systems and facilities fail to respect the role of private hire drivers, many of whom are the first point of contact for international visitors and returning travellers. We are providing a vital public service, but we are being treated with contempt.”

“Private hire drivers are exhausted, demoralised, and many feel they have no voice. We urge Manchester Airport, in coordination with the Mayor’s office, to take these concerns seriously and work with us toward sustainable, fair, and respectful solutions.”