Blue badge holders face new parking restrictions at UK airports this summer

UK airports have issued a warning to blue badge holders that they could face fines this summer if they don't adhere to parking regulations.

Although the blue badge permits free parking in many areas across the country, not all airport terminals abide by the same rules. A breach of these could lead to penalties or even having vehicles impounded.

The alert follows Heathrow Airport's recent disclosure that certain roads surrounding its premises are exempt from the blue badge scheme due to safety concerns.

In a statement, Heathrow Airport specified, "The blue badge scheme operates in all car parks. If you wish to park in a blue badge space but take your badge with you, please show your badge to the car park operator. via the help point or the car park entry machine."

They also cautioned: "For security reasons, the blue badge scheme does not operate on roads around Heathrow - unattended vehicles are liable to be towed away by the police.", reports the Mirror.

Gatwick Airport also outlines specific requirements for registered blue badge owners, stating: "If you are a blue badge holder being dropped off at the airport by friends or by taxi you are exempt from drop-off charges, as long as you register your number plate in advance. The blue badge exemption is valid for a 30-minute free drop-off session, up to three hours of your chosen start time. You are not permitted to leave your vehicle unattended on the Drop-Off Terminal Forecourts."

At Glasgow Airport, blue badge holders are required to pay the standard rates in the pick-up and drop-off areas, as reported by the Express. The guidance provided states: "You will be entitled to 30 minutes free in the short stay car park one/Car park 2. Simply quote your blue badge number when you buzz the intercom on the exit of car park 1 or car park 2."

Stansted Airport offers blue badge parking similar to other major airports, confirming that parking charges are applicable and assistance points can be found at both entrance and exit barriers. Recent government figures have shown that around one in 22 people in England has a blue badge, with a total of 2.57 million badges issued as of March 2023.