Heathrow and Gatwick meet-and-greet operators caught speeding and stealing

A recent investigation by Which? has uncovered serious misconduct among meet-and-greet parking operators at UK airports, particularly Heathrow and Gatwick. Issues reported include speeding violations and theft from vehicles, raising concerns about the safety and reliability of these services. In one notable case, a man was sentenced to 17 months in prison for abandoning hundreds of cars in a farmer's field instead of securing them as promised. GPS data revealed alarming instances of vehicles being driven at high speeds and left in inappropriate locations, such as a rectory's garden. The investigation also highlighted poor practices by specific companies, including cash theft and inadequate security measures. Which? conducted a survey of over 3,000 members to assess their experiences with airport parking, revealing that many were dissatisfied with the services provided by rogue operators. The report emphasizes the importance of using accredited providers and official airport booking sites to avoid potential scams and ensure a safer travel experience. As a result, Which? advises travelers to be cautious when selecting meet-and-greet services and to check for positive reviews on reputable platforms. The findings have prompted calls for greater regulation and oversight of these third-party parking services to protect consumers and maintain trust in airport facilities.