Arrive three hours before flight home, airline boss tells UK holidaymakers
Arrive three hours before flight home, airline boss tells UK holidaymakers
Arrive three hours before flight home – British travelers planning to return from European destinations are being urged to arrive at least three hours prior to their departure times due to the challenges posed by the new Entry Exit System (EES), according to Yvonne Moynihan, a senior executive from Wizz Air, a budget carrier based in the UK. The system, which mandates biometric registration for non-EU visitors, has created delays at certain European airports, leading to reports of passengers missing connecting flights or their final departures.
The EES requires individuals entering the European Union to capture fingerprints and other biometric data, which is then cross-checked during their exit. While the European Commission claims the system is functioning efficiently at most border checkpoints, Moynihan highlighted that its implementation has led to “fragmented delays” across the continent. She noted that some airports are experiencing significant bottlenecks, particularly in regions known for high tourist activity like Spain, Portugal, and France.
“When you land in the destination airport, there might be queues, so you should bring a portable charger or water,” Moynihan said.
Moynihan’s concerns are based on firsthand observations during a recent trip to Mallorca, where she found the process smooth despite the system’s early rollout. However, she pointed out that other locations have been less accommodating, with waiting times stretching up to three and a half hours in some cases. The airline has since updated its guidance, advising passengers to allocate an additional hour for their journeys to account for potential delays.
The situation has prompted calls for flexibility from airport authorities. Moynihan mentioned that border officials are proactively pausing EES checks when congestion builds, a measure that has helped ease some of the strain. Yet, she cautioned that the system’s impact will likely intensify as summer travel peaks. “The surge in passenger numbers will test the system further,” she stated, urging travelers to plan accordingly.
Greece has taken a more drastic approach by effectively halting biometric checks for British citizens at its borders to avoid disruption during the high season. This decision has raised questions about the consistency of EES implementation across the EU. The European Commission, while acknowledging the challenges, maintains that the system is “working well” and that delays are often due to other factors, such as seasonal fluctuations or technical issues.
ACI Europe, a representative body for European airports, reported that 45 airports in 20 EU states have noted increased waiting times since the EES was introduced. The organization emphasized that while some countries have managed to mitigate problems through partial suspensions, the system still faces hurdles. Moynihan supported this view, stating that the airline is advising passengers to allow ample time between flights for those with connecting journeys.
Moynihan also highlighted the potential for delays at the UK end of the trip. “Because there is another passport check…that’s where we see that people have, again, experienced longer waiting times than anticipated,” she said. This means travelers should anticipate prolonged wait times not only upon arrival in Europe but also when departing back home. The airline’s recommendation to arrive three hours early is seen as a proactive measure to avoid last-minute complications.
Despite the challenges, the European Commission has reiterated that the EES is not the sole cause of delays. It pointed out that biometric registration typically takes just a minute, and member states are responsible for ensuring the system is operational. Portugal, for instance, has announced the hiring of 360 additional border officers for airports in July to address the issue. However, the Commission admitted that “exceptional circumstances” have allowed for temporary suspensions of EES checks in certain areas.
Moynihan acknowledged that initial issues with the EES have been resolved, but she warned that the system remains vulnerable as summer travel begins. She called for more coordinated action, suggesting that additional countries might need to suspend checks during peak periods. The European Commission, meanwhile, emphasized its support for member states to adapt the system to local needs.
As the summer season approaches, there is growing concern about the potential ripple effects on global travel. The Middle East, a critical region for oil supply, could see disruptions that affect air travel, including fuel shortages and flight cancellations. Wizz Air, like other airlines, has observed a trend of delayed bookings, which it is addressing with “very affordable prices” to stimulate demand.
Moynihan encouraged passengers to book confidently, aligning with the stance of other budget airline leaders such as EasyJet and Jet2. She assured the public that the system is being adapted to meet increasing demand and that no cuts to the airline’s schedule are expected. However, she warned that rising oil prices could lead to higher fares in the future, adding to the financial burden of holidaymakers.
The ongoing adjustments to the EES system underscore the complexities of integrating new technology into existing travel infrastructure. While the European Commission and airports are working to resolve issues, the experiences of British travelers highlight the need for continued improvements. As the system matures, its ability to streamline border checks will be crucial in maintaining seamless travel for millions of visitors across the continent.