Dublin Airport is writing to around 4,500 customers regarding a total refund of €350,000 for parking overcharges during promotional campaigns.
The issue arose after complaints were lodged with the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) about pricing errors during a ‘Holiday Blue Flash Sale’ in March and a ‘Long Term Car Parking Promotion’ in May. A flat rate of €10 per day applied incorrectly, which overrode off-peak prices, leading to about €25,000 in individual overcharges ranging from €1 to €64.
Almost 90pc of affected customers were overcharged by less than €12, with an average overpayment of roughly €5.90. Customers will receive full refunds and a 20% discount on future bookings, alongside assurances of new checks from Dublin Airport to prevent recurrence.
Brian McHugh chair of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission shared, “We welcome the swift action taken by daa following contact from the CCPC alerting it to potential breaches of consumer protection laws. “The CCPC was able to take this action thanks to consumers who took the time to report concerns about misleading sales pricing. Active competition among businesses is vital to drive choice, better service and innovation. However, any promotions need to be grounded in real benefits to consumers.”
