Holidaymakers face arrest over outstanding court fines
Holidaymakers with outstanding court fines could be arrested at the airport if they fail to pay what they owe.
The Scottish Court Service (SCS) is assisting police across the UK in a bid to catch travellers who have defaulted on payments.
Unless outstanding fines are paid on the spot, defaulters can be arrested and taken into custody.
Over the past year 85% of all court fines have been successfully collected.
This weekend is expected to be one of the busiest of the year for holidaymakers with record numbers of passengers expected at Glasgow and Edinburgh airports.
SCS chief operations officer Cliff Binning said: "Jeopardising your holiday plans just isn't worth it. It is well worth taking the time to pay your fine before heading off on your trip.
"Anyone in genuine financial difficulty during the holiday season can contact a fines enforcement officer at their local court to receive advice and assistance on payment plans to get back on track."
Defaulters, who have been fined in Scotland, can still be arrested at travel points across the UK.
A Dumfries man was recently arrested at Manchester Airport as he tried to leave the UK after failing to pay a £200 fine for having no valid car insurance.
The campaign has been backed by Police Scotland's Border Policing Command.
Supt Alan Crawford said: "If you are intending to go on a holiday and have an outstanding fine or warrant, then there is every likelihood you may be stopped and this could have a serious impact on you and those travelling with you.
"I would urge anyone who is currently subject to an outstanding fine or warrant and preparing to embark on a trip to address the matter urgently to ensure that you are not inconvenienced and can fully enjoy your break."
Fines collection rates in Scotland continue to rise with the latest quarterly report showing that 85% of sheriff court fines imposed from 2010-11 to 2012-13 have either been paid or are on track to be paid through instalments.