A British holidaymaker faced a nightmare scenario after returning from a family trip to Alicante to find his car in ruins. Ioan Williams, a resident near Caernarfon, entrusted his white Range Rover to Manchester Airport’s Meet and Greet service before jetting off on August 9 with his children. However, upon his return a week later, he discovered that his vehicle had been involved in an incident that left the driver’s side wheel severely damaged. The repair costs estimated by insurers amounted to a staggering £15,800, rendering the car a write-off.
Despite ongoing cooperation between the airport and his insurance company, Ioan expressed frustration at the absence of an apology or compensation offer. Recounting the events leading up to the shocking discovery, Ioan explained that he had left his car in pristine condition at the designated service at Terminal 2, where a surveillance camera typically records the vehicle’s condition. He dropped off his keys inside the terminal, received a receipt, and proceeded with his holiday.
Upon their late-night return on August 16, Ioan sought to retrieve his car keys, only to encounter a message instructing him to seek assistance. Subsequent discussions with the airport staff revealed that a driver had damaged the car’s wheel while parking. The severity of the damage became apparent when Ioan inspected the vehicle and realised it was undrivable. The airport arranged for a taxi to transport Ioan and his family home, leaving the car on-site.
Regarding the aftermath, Ioan acknowledged the support received from his insurance company but lamented the emotional attachment he had to his beloved car, purchased as a personal milestone gift. While Manchester Airport refunded the parking fee, Ioan highlighted the absence of any formal apology or compensation gesture from the airport. Disappointed by the overall handling of the situation, he resolved never to utilise the Meet and Greet service at the airport again.
Manchester Airport has engaged with Ioan and initiated discussions with his insurers to address the matter, but declined to comment further on the specific case. The ordeal serves as a cautionary tale for travellers entrusting their vehicles to airport services, emphasising the importance of thorough documentation and vigilance to mitigate potential risks and disputes.