Holidaymakers from the UK are being advised to expect delays at European airports due to new border checks, but are encouraged to continue booking vacations with confidence. It is recommended that travelers arrive at least three hours before their departure time to account for long queues at passport control.
Yvonne Moynihan, the UK head of budget airline Wizz Air, noted that some passengers have missed flights due to extended wait times at passport control in certain European airports. The Entry Exit System (EES), which mandates travelers to register fingerprints, has contributed to worsening queues, although the European Commission stated that EES is functioning effectively at most border points.
ACI Europe, representing airports, suggested that passengers adhere to the airline’s specified arrival times. The EES requires non-EU travelers to provide biometric data upon entry to many European countries, which is then verified upon departure.
As of October, nearly 80 million entries and exits have been logged, with 35,000 entry refusals. The EES is set to be fully operational at Schengen zone borders from April 10. Despite this, Greece has halted biometric checks for British citizens to avoid disruptions during the summer season.
Moynihan of Wizz Air highlighted varying impacts of the new checks across Europe, with significant queues observed in popular destinations like Spain, Portugal, and France. Travelers are advised to carry essentials like a portable charger and water due to potential delays.
The advice is to arrive at the airport three hours ahead of the flight, especially for connecting flights, as queues can delay departure. Border officials are reportedly suspending EES checks during peak congestion periods.
ACI Europe’s survey of 45 airports in 20 EU states indicated queues of up to three and a half hours due to EES implementation. The situation is expected to worsen as summer approaches, potentially becoming unmanageable with increased passenger volumes.
Member states are responsible for ensuring proper EES implementation and providing adequate border staff. Portugal has announced additional border officers to address delays reported at its airports.
While improvements have been made to the system, Moynihan anticipates challenges during the summer peak and suggests more countries suspend checks temporarily. The European Commission allows for temporary suspension of biometric registration in exceptional circumstances leading to excessive wait times.
With summer holidays nearing, concerns about jet fuel supply issues and cancellations in the Middle East have emerged. Wizz Air and other airlines have noted a trend of late bookings and competitive pricing to stimulate demand.
Moynihan reassured passengers about booking with confidence, as the airline has adapted its operations to avoid shortages or schedule cuts. However, fares may rise if oil prices remain high in the future.
Lastly, due to flooding at an airport train station, train services to and from Heathrow Airport have been suspended today. Passengers are advised to make alternative travel arrangements and allow extra time for their journeys.
