Air transportation is one of the great conveniences of modern life, but getting to an airport is less convenient, particularly if the passenger uses a private car. If no one remains behind to drive the vehicle away, it must remain at the airport. At Manchester Airport, long-term parking near the terminals is relatively expensive, but a less pricey alternative is available in the JetParks, remote parking facilities located less than a mile from the terminal.
How it works
A passenger making the reservation for a flight should also decide what to do about the car. If it will remain at the airport for the duration of the trip, parking reservations should be made. Clients who use JetParks can reserve a space by telephone, or they may choose to use the convenient form on the company’s web site.
On the day of the trip, the car’s number plate is recognized on arrival by JetPark’s system and the gate arm lifts automatically. In case of difficulty, the passenger should have available a printed confirmation of their booking with its bar code. After parking in the reserved space, the passenger takes the free airport shuttle to the terminal. The shuttles run at fifteen minute intervals.
Upon returning, the passenger follows the signs inside the terminal for the Car Parks Bus Stops and takes the free number 5 shuttle back to the JetPark. After retrieving the vehicle, the passenger drives to the barrier, which should automatically lift. Should it fail to do so, the passenger should scan the bar code on the booking confirmation or press the “”help”" button.
Disabled parking
Spaces for vehicles displaying Blue Badges are located conveniently close to bus stops, and the buses themselves are equipped to deal with passengers in wheelchairs. Clients who require such services should mention the situation when making parking reservations.
Security
JetParks are operated by Manchester Airport staff, and are attended 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Anyone may park safely in a JetPark and retrieve a vehicle at any hour of the day or night. The premises are monitored using a CCTV system, and security personnel make regular physical patrols to safeguard vehicles in their care. Users park their own cars and keep the keys themselves, retaining complete control over the parking process.
Disadvantages
Like any commercial enterprise, JetParks is not perfect. Some users have noted that the compacted stone surface of the parks make it difficult to pull wheeled luggage. Others cite a need to avoid large puddles during foul weather. Most clients, however, are very satisfied with the value received for the money spent.
Follow the motorway signs to the M56 and then to Manchester Airport. Within the airport, follow the signs to Terminal 2. From that point, proceed up the slip road to the roundabout and take the first exit to the left. Turn left on Thorley Lane after 75 yards. JetParks 2 is situated on the right and JetParks 1 on the left.