Newcastle Airport have opened a new valet service car park - but it doesn't come cheap.
The 'Premium Meet and Greet' offers a high-end parking option for customers with deep pockets, complete with uniformed concierges and a hotel-style reception.
It's part of a multi-million pound overhaul of the airport's car parks and, bosses say, is the quickest and easiest way to get from car to terminal.
But it isn't for everyone: ChronicleLive did a quick check for a two-week stay in July it would, according to the airport's website, set you back £93.99.
Here's how an airport spokesperson described the posh new car park: "Inside the purpose-built facility, there is a modern, high-specification waiting area – which hosts an eye-catching light feature with a hotel-style reception where a uniformed member of staff is waiting to collect the passenger’s keys.
"The dedicated ‘Premium Meet and Greet’ team ensure the vehicle is available for a hassle-free collection upon return from their trip – making for a personalised experience.
"High-tech photographic booths have also been installed – which will inspect the condition of each vehicle when it enters and leaves the facility providing peace of mind to passengers."
There was anger from passengers in December 2018 when the charge for the Express car park was doubled to £2 for 10 minutes.
Airport managers defended the move, point out you get 15 minutes of free parking for customers dropping off or picking up passengers in the Short Stay 2 car park.
Dean Ward, head of commercial, said: “Demand for the meet and greet car parking product has increased dramatically over the last few years.
“In light of this, it is important that we continue to invest in new infrastructure and technology to further improve the high standards of customer experience.
“We look forward to welcoming our first customers through the facility this week and many more over the busy summer period.”
Councillor Iain Malcolm, leader of South Tyneside Council and chair of the LA7 shareholders, added: "This latest investment is further evidence of the airport's strategy to put passengers at the very heart of the business."
The service must be pre-booked and reservations can be made up to the day of travel.
