Gatwick Warns Travelers of Unregulated Airport Parking Scams

Gatwick Airport has issued a warning to travelers about rogue car parking companies operating within its premises. Complaints regarding these unauthorized operators have significantly increased, with 130 reports in 2024, nearly doubling from 73 in 2022, according to Trading Standards data. These companies, which often present themselves as legitimate services, have left passengers waiting for extended periods, returned vehicles with damage, or, in extreme cases, abandoned them in fields or on local highways.

A BBC investigation uncovered troubling practices by some third-party parking firms, highlighting the risks travelers face when booking with unverified operators. Gatwick Airport’s parking director, Oliver Bedford, emphasized the importance of vigilance, particularly ahead of the busy Easter and summer travel seasons.

Oliver Bedford, car parking director at Gatwick Airport, urged caution:

"The challenge we have is that these operators can operate in the airport as long as they don't break any of our bylaws."

He also noted that some companies exploit peak travel periods before shutting down abruptly. A recent operation with Sussex Police has already led to two arrests, signaling increased efforts to curb these fraudulent activities.

Passengers are advised to look for the ParkMark accreditation, an industry standard issued by the British Parking Association, and to check independent reviews before making bookings. Bedford warned that deals appearing "too good to be true" should be approached with skepticism.

A West Sussex Trading Standards spokesperson described the severity of some cases:

"In extreme cases, cars were being left in fields and on local highways."

Authorities continue to monitor and take action against these rogue operators, urging the public to stay informed and exercise caution when selecting airport parking services.

”Although they may have Gatwick in their name there's no association between those operators and the airport.”