Fair parking. Clear rules. Better access at Manchester Airport.

Yesterday in Westminster Hall I spoke about the impact of parking, drop off and pick up charges at Manchester Airport, and what this means for local residents, airport workers and families travelling across Greater Manchester.

Manchester Airport is a vital regional asset for our city region, supporting jobs, investment and connectivity. But many people continue to contact me about concerns over the cost, clarity and fairness of current parking arrangements, particularly for short visits, drop offs and collections.

In Parliament, I highlighted a number of practical issues that need addressing:

High charges for very short stays that can catch drivers out

Confusing signage and road layouts that make it difficult to make informed choices

Charges being applied in ways that feel disproportionate

A lack of transparency around how the system operates day to day

This campaign is about getting the balance right. Airports need to manage traffic responsibly, but people should also be treated fairly and be able to access the airport without being penalised unnecessarily.

As part of this work, I have set out some clear and practical asks:

Improved and clearer signage across all approaches and terminals

A simpler and fairer system for short stay, drop off and pick up visits

An appeals process that works properly and treats people reasonably

Greater transparency around how parking and drop off charges are applied

This follows my meeting in late 2025 with Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director at Manchester Airport Group, where I raised these concerns directly and discussed the need for a more balanced and transparent approach.

I have also written to all 10 Greater Manchester councils, who are the shareholders of Manchester Airport Group, asking them to back this campaign. Manchester City Council holds the largest share, but every council has a stake and a responsibility to ensure the airport operates in a way that reflects fairness, access and value for the communities they represent.

I will continue working constructively with Manchester Airport, local councils, unions and passengers to push for sensible improvements based on common sense and fairness.

See my contributions from yesterday below: