Florida Homes & Travel

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport has unveiled its new car rental centre. Previously the ’onsite’ car rental companies where located at various points around the perimeter road, accessed by company shuttles. 10 companies now have their desks within the new centre, across the road from Terminal 1. Shuttles operate to bring passengers from the other terminals. The centre has received a mixed welcome from passengers. Whilst Terminal 1 arrivals can just cross the road to begin the process, other passengers complain that the shuttles are full, there are then long queues for the desks and luggage must then be hauled up or downstairs to access the cars. Longer-term plans for the airport include a separate concourse and check-in facility for cruise passengers, who during the winter months can number 5,000 in just a 3-4 hour stretch.

An investigation into the car rental industry at Orlando International Airport has confirmed something that most travellers were well aware of; customers are subjected to high-pressure sales tactics! Whilst officially not condoned by any of the rental companies, there was plenty of anecdotal evidence showing that on arrival, most Americans landed up paying about 25% more than the quoted price. Unlike our UK inclusive packages, Americans must pay separately for taxes, Customer Facility Charges and insurances. Most travellers in the states don’t need additional insurance to drive a rental car, but are shown photos of damaged cars, told they will be liable for costs whilst a damaged car was out of action, told their insurance is not enough etc! Agents are on commission of course for any extras, or upgrades they can sell. The Association of Car and Truck Rental Independents and Franchisees said the situation was ’problematic’ and people were easily coaxed.

Posted on 1 March 2005