How to Challenge Airport Parking TicketsHow to Challenge Airport Parking Tickets
We are sharing a short video together with the graphic below explaining a key legal point that often applies to airport parking and drop-off zone charges.
Many drivers receive a Parking Charge Notice (PCN) after briefly stopping in an airport drop-off area. These notices are usually issued by private parking companies, who may attempt to rely on the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 (POFA) to pursue the registered keeper of the vehicle.
However, an important legal distinction may apply.
Airport Land and “Relevant Land”
Under Schedule 4 of the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, private parking companies can sometimes transfer liability from the driver to the registered keeper of a vehicle — but only if the alleged parking event occurred on “relevant land.”
Airport land is often subject to airport byelaws, meaning the land is under statutory control. Where this is the case, it is not considered “relevant land” under POFA, which means the registered keeper cannot automatically be held liable for the parking charge.
In practical terms, this means:
- A Parking Charge Notice may still be issued.
- However, the parking operator may not be able to rely on POFA to transfer liability to the vehicle’s registered keeper.
- Instead, they would need to prove who was actually driving the vehicle at the time of the alleged contravention.
Why This Matters
Many notices sent to vehicle keepers imply that the keeper is automatically responsible for payment, which may not always be the case on land covered by statutory byelaws.
Understanding the difference between:
- Driver liability
- Keeper liability
- and “relevant land” under POFA
can help people better understand their position when responding to private parking notices.
Watch the Video
The short video below explains the process and highlights the legal argument often raised when challenging airport parking charges.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Individual circumstances can vary, and anyone facing legal proceedings should seek appropriate professional advice.