Gatwick Airport warns of rogue car parking firms

Beware of Rogue Parking Operators at Gatwick Airport: Complaints Soar as Holidaymakers Face Delays and Damage

Travellers using Gatwick Airport are being urged to exercise caution when booking airport parking, as complaints about rogue parking firms have nearly doubled over the past two years. With peak holiday periods such as Easter and summer approaching, airport authorities are taking steps to warn passengers about the risks posed by unregulated third-party parking operators.

Surge in Complaints Against Unregulated Parking Firms

A BBC investigation has revealed that many unsuspecting holidaymakers have suffered long delays in retrieving their vehicles, with some cars returned in a damaged state after being left in unsuitable locations. Statistics from West Sussex Trading Standards indicate that complaints about Gatwick Airport parking companies rose from 73 in 2022 to 130 in 2024—a worrying trend that highlights the extent of the issue.

Oliver Bedford, Director of Car Parking at Gatwick Airport, has urged passengers to be vigilant when selecting parking services. He stated:

"The challenge we have is that these operators can operate in the airport as long as they don't break any of our bylaws. Although they may have 'Gatwick' in their name, there is no association between these operators and the airport."

Mr Bedford also warned that many of these rogue firms emerge during peak travel seasons and then disappear, leaving passengers struggling to retrieve their vehicles or facing unexpected fines and damages.

Cars Left in Fields and Public Highways

West Sussex Trading Standards has received reports that, in some extreme cases, cars have been abandoned in fields, unsecured locations, and even on public roads. A recent crackdown in collaboration with Sussex Police has led to two arrests as authorities attempt to combat fraudulent parking activities. However, many unregulated firms continue to operate, taking advantage of unsuspecting travellers.

How to Identify a Reputable Parking Provider

To help travellers avoid falling victim to dishonest parking companies, Mr Bedford advises booking through verified sources and checking for key accreditations such as the Park Mark—a certification issued by the British Parking Association. Additionally, he recommends:

• Researching independent reviews: Always check online customer reviews and testimonials before booking a parking service.
• Being cautious of extremely low prices: If a deal appears too good to be true, it probably is.
• Checking Trading Standards approvals: Legitimate parking companies often have official endorsements from regulatory bodies.
• Booking through official airport websites: Using Gatwick Airport’s official parking options ensures that travellers are dealing with trusted providers.

The Importance of Secure Airport Parking

Choosing a reputable parking provider is not just about convenience—it’s about security. Legitimate parking companies operate within controlled environments, offering round-the-clock surveillance and secure storage for vehicles. Unregulated firms, on the other hand, have been known to park vehicles in unsecured lots, risking theft, damage, or unauthorised use.

What is Being Done to Combat Rogue Operators?

Gatwick Airport is working closely with Sussex Police and Trading Standards to clamp down on dishonest parking firms. Enhanced monitoring, increased enforcement action, and stricter licensing requirements are among the measures being explored to better regulate off-site airport parking services.

Despite these efforts, it remains essential for passengers to take personal precautions when booking parking. Awareness and due diligence can help prevent holidaymakers from falling victim to scams or encountering unnecessary stress upon their return.

With the rise in complaints and the ongoing crackdown on rogue operators, it is more important than ever for travellers to remain cautious when selecting airport parking at Gatwick. By choosing trusted providers, verifying accreditations, and avoiding suspiciously cheap deals, passengers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free start to their holidays.

As peak travel periods approach, Gatwick Airport will continue its efforts to raise awareness and protect passengers from fraudulent parking operators. In the meantime, travellers should take extra care to ensure their vehicles are in safe hands while they’re away.