How to File a Complaint If Airport Parking Goes Wrong

How to File a Complaint If Airport Parking Goes Wrong (Without the Stress): A Complete Guide

We’ve all been there: you return from a trip, exhausted but relieved, only to find your cheap airport parking experience has gone sideways. Maybe your car’s got a new scratch, the shuttle never showed, or you’ve been charged extra for no reason. As someone who once dealt with a nightmare parking lot near Manchester Airport (more on that later), I’ve learned the hard way that knowing how to complain effectively is half the battle. Here’s my step-by-step guide to resolving issues calmly and getting results.

Must Read: Parking Insights: Comparing UK’s Busiest Airports for Convenience.

1. Stay Calm and Document Everything 

The moment you suspect something’s wrong — whether it’s damage to your vehicle, unexpected charges, or a missed meet-and-greet service — pause and gather evidence. Snap photos of your car (inside and out) before leaving the parking facility, focusing on any scratches, dents, or interior issues. If you’ve booked a Manchester airport cheap parking deal through a third-party site like, take screenshots of your booking confirmation and the terms you agreed to. Time-stamped evidence is your best friend here. 

2. Contact the Provider Immediately 

Most parking companies, even budget-friendly ones, have customer service channels. Check your booking email for a contact number or address, and explain the issue clearly. For example: 

“Hi, I booked your Manchester Airport parking service on 20-5-2025 and noticed a dent on my rear bumper when collecting my car. I’ve attached photos and my booking reference. Could we discuss next steps?” 

Stay polite but firm. Reputable providers often resolve issues quickly to avoid negative reviews. 

Must Read: Top Airport Parking Choices for Business Trips.

3. Keep a Paper Trail 

Save every interaction: emails, call logs, receipts, and even notes from phone conversations (e.g., “Spoke to John at 2pm on 15/10 – promised a callback by 17/10”). If you booked via a comparison site like Ezybook.co.uk, loop them in too. Many platforms have customer protection policies and can mediate disputes. 

4. Leave a Balanced Review 

If the company drags its feet, share your experience on Trustpilot, Google Reviews, or the booking platform itself. Stick to facts: “Booked a meet-and-greet service, but no staff were present at arrival. Took 45 mins to resolve. No apology offered.” Public reviews often prompt faster resolutions — I once got a full refund within hours of posting mine! 

5. Escalate to the Authorities 

For serious issues (e.g., damage disputes, overcharging), contact the British Parking Association (BPA) if the operator is a member (check their website). The BPA can investigate breaches of their code of conduct. For financial disputes, Citizens Advice or a small claims court (for amounts under £10,000) may be options. 

Must Read: How to Handle Airport Parking When Travelling with Pets.

My Manchester Airport Parking Mishap: A Lesson Learned 

A few years ago, I opted for a cheap off-site parking deal near Manchester Airport. The lot was poorly lit, my pre-booked space was occupied, and the shuttle left without me. By following the steps above — documenting the chaos, escalating via Ezybook, and leaving a candid review — I secured a full refund and a discount on future bookings.