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A disability charity has called for an end to airport drop-off fees for blue badge holders, highlighting the complexity and inconsistency of the current system. Graham Footer, chief executive of Disabled Motoring UK, criticized airports for allowing greed to cloud their judgment, arguing that people with disabilities should not have to pay any charges upon arrival. He emphasized that disabled customers deserve respect and dignity, rather than being exploited with additional fees.
The BBC contacted the 20 busiest airports in the UK to inquire about their policies on drop-off charges for blue badge holders. While some airports like London City do not charge drop-off fees for any passengers, others such as Cardiff, Newcastle, and Stanstead charge the same fee with no discounts for blue badge holders. The accessibility of drop-off options for blue badge users varies depending on the airport layout, with some airports offering free parking further from the terminals.
James Williams, a blue badge holder from London, expressed frustration with the online process required to claim exemptions for drop-off fees. He highlighted the challenges faced by those who are not computer literate, stating that the system requires individuals to “jump through hoops” to obtain discounts. This sentiment was echoed by Jonathan Cassar, who emphasized the need for a simpler and more user-friendly registration process for disabled people.
While some blue badge holders, like Gordon Richardson from the British Polio Fellowship Board, are not opposed to the principle of paying the same fees as non-disabled individuals, they underscore the importance of ensuring accessibility and ease of use for designated spaces. Richardson urged blue badge holders to contact airports in advance to arrange for necessary assistance and ensure they receive their entitled discounts or free parking. Many airports have consulted with disability groups to create policies that cater to the specific needs of blue badge holders
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