Cork Airport’s free parking set-down time has been reduced by one third

Since 2019 a barrier system with automatic number plate recognition has been in place for drivers dropping off or collecting passengers of Cork Airport.

For the last five years, access was free-of-charge for up to 15 minutes to allow for normal drop off and collection. For drivers who wish to stay beyond the 15 minute grace period, charges apply.

However, eagle-eyed drivers have spotted the set down time has now been reduced, allowing drivers only 10 minutes before a charge is applied to their car.

Now, if you remain in the set down lane for 11 to 20 minutes, you’ll incur a €3 charge, then from 21 to 30 minutes, it will cost €5, while remaining there between 31 minutes to an hour will cost €10.

If you remain in the set down lane between 61 and 121 minutes you’ll be charged €20.

Drivers can pay for their time spent in the set down zone at the barrier as they leave, with the option of paying either by cash or card.

Cork Airport also provides a free charge for the first 15 minutes at the short-stay multi-storey car park.

“Due to the high volume of traffic using the forecourt at Cork Airport and in the interest of good traffic management, vehicles are not permitted to wait excessively for arriving passengers outside the terminal on the forecourt in the Set Down Lane. Attended vehicles will be moved on and the policy of clamping unattended vehicles is strictly enforced by Airport Police. Cars must not be left unattended at any time,” Cork Airport website states.