Manchester Airport’s private hire policy branded ‘unfair’ as Oldham drivers call for urgent reform
- Perry Richardson
- Jul 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 4
Manchester Airport is facing growing pressure from private hire drivers who say the airport’s new policies are creating financial hardship and operational chaos.
Hundreds of drivers, represented by the Oldham Private Hire Drivers Association (OPHDA), have written their concerns to airport officials calling for an immediate overhaul of the pick-up and drop-off system and improvements to the driver holding area.
A major point of concern is the barrier-less entry system recently introduced at the airport. Drivers claim the setup lacks clear signage and instructions, leading to a surge in penalty notices—even for those who have registered and paid through AutoPay. According to the OPHDA, many fines have been wrongly issued, with drivers receiving penalty charges of £100 despite following the process.
OPHDA has accused the airport of profiting from this confusion, calling the penalty levels disproportionate and inconsistent with the principles laid out by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham in trade discussions. The group has demanded that fines be capped at £40, reduced to £20 if paid early, and that a three-month adjustment period should have been implemented before full enforcement.
In the holding area, where drivers wait for passenger requests, conditions have been described as unacceptable. The current 90-minute limit is seen as unworkable, with drivers saying it rarely allows enough time to secure a job. The previous 180-minute limit is being demanded back.
The association says the holding area is overcrowded, with space for far fewer vehicles than needed. Overflow onto public roads is becoming routine, raising safety concerns. Facilities on site are also criticised, with broken toilets, no seating or shelter, and no access to basic amenities like vending machines. Potholes and standing water are also said to be an issue.
Another key issue is the suspension of Concession Card applications. Without access to the card, drivers are left paying full rates for parking and airport use—totalling as much as £400 per month.
The problem is further compounded by local hotels near the airport which have started charging for entry or limiting waiting times to five minutes, further restricting drivers’ ability to carry out safe and efficient pick-ups.
The OPHDA is calling for immediate talks and a set of minimum improvements. These include reinstating the 180-minute wait time, improving basic facilities, reopening the concession scheme, and introducing clearer guidance on the barrier-less system.
The group says the current policies show a lack of respect for the role private hire drivers play in the airport’s operation and image. Drivers often serve as the first point of contact for travellers arriving in Manchester, yet many feel ignored and mistreated.
The letter ends with a call for an urgent meeting between Manchester Airport officials and OPHDA representatives, with support from the Mayor’s office.
