Newcastle Airport coach drop offs

Paul Watson Coaches, were recently issued with a £100 fine at Newcastle International Airport for dropping off in an incorrect place after passengers concerned about missing their flight disembarked at the gate and walked. The coach was refused entry despite the driver offering to pay and ringing a number given to him. Paul is contesting the fine. Prompted by Paul, who doesn’t want other operators to go through a similar experience, B&CB has contacted the airport to clarify its coach drop off procedures as he could not see any signs relating to the matter on display.

The road immediately in front of the terminal is restricted to airport taxis, selected bus operators and airport vehicles. Coach operators who wish to make use of this area should contact the car parks call centre team on 0191 214 4341. This is the correct number for coach companies to contact to access the front of the terminal. Access to this area is controlled by Automated Number Plate Recognition technology. Vehicles not granted prior permission will not be able to access this area.

All coaching companies wishing to gain access to the terminal front road system for qualifying coaches (22 seats or more including the driver), for the purposes of picking up or setting down passengers wishing to use Newcastle International Airport, will be required to pre-book their access requirements at least 24 hours ahead of arriving at the airport. Access is strictly limited through pre-booking. The price per vehicle and booking is £20. Coaches can stay outside the terminal building for as long as it takes to pick up/drop off passengers. Drivers are requested to remain with their vehicles. The airport allows a coaching company not familiar with booking in, to gain a free entry/exit to allow pick up and drop off. At this time, the company’s details would be taken and call centre staff would retrospectively call the coach operator to advise on any future visits.

Visit http://www.newcastleairport.com/controlled-area for more information.

£20 sounds a bit steep and the 24-hour requirement rather inflexible to us, simply for delivering the airport’s customers. A few signs making the situation clearer for coach drivers would also be helpful. Let us know if you experience similar problems.

 

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