Mike Crockart, MP for Edinburgh West, has slammed today’s announcement from BAA that the recently announced £1 drop off fee at the Edinburgh Airport could be raised further.

While the airport operator says the fee is being implemented to reduce congestion and airport pollution, there are fears that this will be seen as nothing but a quick fix cash generator for BAA, to cut costs for its airline operators.

Mike Crockart said;Mike Crockart MP: Edinburgh West

“While the state goal of reduced congestion and pollution from cars are very worthwhile I feel that this can be achieved through continued improvements in the public transport access to the airport.

“With today’s announcement of another possible fee increase in the near future it looks to as if this is now just going to be another money generating scheme from BAA.”

“Having examined the proposals in depth, I am particularly worried about access for disabled and elderly passengers and the six minute limit seems an arbitrary amount which will cause huge problems for those with young children.”

“I call on BAA to reconsider its proposals for drop-off charges. If only Ryanair is presently supporting this proposal, that should be enough to make them think again.”