We write to you on behalf of hundreds of private hire drivers to raise urgent concerns about the current conditions and policies being enforced at Manchester Airport.

The newly introduced barrier-less pick-up and drop-off system is not only poorly implemented but is deliberately causing confusion and hardship for drivers. 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 3 months should have been in place to allow drivers to adjust. For the first 6 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 private hire holding area is in a dire state:

• The current 90-minute limit is completely inadequate. 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.

• 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 onto 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.

• Concession card applications remain closed, forcing drivers to pay maximum charges—often totalling £350–£400 per month in parking fees alone. This is unaffordable for most and needs to be urgently reopened.

• Nearby airport hotels are also now charging for entry or reducing pick-up time to just 5 minutes, making safe and proper pick-up impossible and creating more pressure on drivers and passengers.

• 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.

We urge Manchester Airport to take immediate action and work with OPHDA and trade representatives to implement the following minimum improvements:

Revert holding area wait time to 180 minutes

Improve and increase toilet and rest facilities

Reopen the Concession Card application process

Cap penalty fees at a fair level (£40, reduced to £20 if paid early)

Provide clear signage and guidance on how to use the new barrier-less system

Repair and maintain the car park surface to avoid further vehicle damage

Add vending and shelter facilities to support long waits

Engage in transparent communication and regular consultation with driver representatives

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.

We are committed to supporting a better experience not only for local drivers, but for those visiting from towns and cities across the UK who contribute to your success.

We request a formal response and a meeting with OPHDA representatives at the earliest opportunity.

Yours sincerely,

Oldham Private Hire Drivers Association

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