On June 30th Sydney Airport announced the introduction of a 15 minute free parking period at the International Terminal.
This is a really welcomed change at the airport, which has a reputation for high fees. Still, it seems that satisfying the media is an impossible task! According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the change in the pricing structure comes after years of criticism from consumers. A report in March by the ACCC said that car parking revenue at the airport was considerably above operating expenses over the whole reporting period.
Sydney Airport’s chief executive, Russell Balding, said that the change was the result of a successful introduction last year of a pick up area at the T2 Domestic Terminal, and that he hoped the NSW Government would support its changes by improving the availability and affordability of public transport to and from the airport.
He said only about 13 per cent of passengers used the car park, with the majority of people using other transport options including train, taxis, bus and shuttle bus services, limousine services and rental cars.
The International Terminal now charges $0 from 0-15 minutes; $7 for 15 to 30 minutes; $15 for 30 to 60 minutes; and $50 for between four and 24 hours.