Quit complaining about airport parking costs

NOT only is airport parking unavoidable, costs are a far better deal than inner-city shopping centres, argues Brian Crisp.

airport parking

THIS is not going to be a popular column but something has to be said.

It is time to stop the hysteria regarding the price of parking cars at airports. No one likes paying to park at airports - or anywhere else - and all of us whinge that it is too expensive.

But travellers need to understand that you have to pay, unless you can find a friend willing to drop you off.

Parking at most airports is cheaper than at inner-city shopping centres.

The last time I parked at the QVB shopping centre in the heart of Sydney, it cost me $62 for just over four hours. At Sydney airport it costs me $56 to park undercover for just under 24 hours. If I don't mind not being under cover, I can park in the long-term area for three days for $67.

I was at Brisbane Airport this past week to pick up my daughter Georgia, who was flying in from Canberra, and found that the airport is in the final stages of a major renovation - the main part of it being a mega carpark to cope with the demand.

"(Brisbane Airport Corporation) has invested $180 million in building a new nine-storey, 5000-space carpark at Brisbane domestic," airport spokeswoman Leonie Vandeven says.

"The new carpark is complete and fully operational, with skywalk access to and from the terminal and several special features.

"There is, however, still some ongoing construction in the precinct for the reconfiguration of the road network. Works are expected to be completed by October.

"In August, as part of the domestic terminal upgrade project, we also look forward to opening a new public pick-up facility at the domestic terminal, which will allow drivers to park and wait for their passengers for up to 20 minutes for free."

Let me repeat that. Free parking for 20 minutes. I think that is a pretty good deal and should get people off the side of the busy airport entry road.

One thing I don't understand, though, is why the BAC charges less to park at its international terminal than the domestic - $10 less for four hours.

That's something the BAC should look at. And by that I mean lower the domestic parking fee, not raise the international fee.

Here's a tip. If you are planning to be at the airport for more than four hours, park in the long-term area. You might have to walk a little farther but the rates are considerably cheaper.

While on the complaint front, travellers have a new person to hear their concerns about airlines - Airlines Customer Advocate Julia Lines.

Despite the fact that her position is partly funded by Jetstar, Qantas, Rex, Tiger and Virgin, she says she will "name and shame" airlines that don't do the right thing.

Lines has committed to answer all complaints within 20 days and expects the main complaints will be about flight delays, lost baggage, terms and conditions, and refunds.

Contact Julia Lines on 1800 813 129 or see www.airline customeradvocate.com.au

Brian Crisp is News Limited's National Travel Editor.