Three out of five UK vacationers traveling to Europe this year anticipate encountering delays related to the European Union’s new entry-exit system (EES). A recent survey reveals that 59% of travelers are concerned about potential hold-ups due to border checks, potentially leading to missed flights. The EES requires individuals from non-EU countries like the UK to have their fingerprints and photos taken upon entering the Schengen Area, comprising 29 European nations.
The majority of UK travelers undergo this process at foreign airports, as highlighted in a poll commissioned by Booking.com. The Airports Council International reported that EES has caused delays of up to three hours, affecting airports in Spain, Portugal, France, and Italy. Notably, over 100 easyJet passengers missed a Milan Linate to Manchester flight due to intensified passport checks.
The survey also indicates that 56% of UK travelers plan to arrive at airports earlier than usual to mitigate disruptions, with 12% aiming to arrive at least four hours before departure. More than half of respondents who traveled to the EU post-EES implementation experienced delays during their journey.
Conversely, 43% reported no delays. Families and travelers heading to Europe for the May half-term break are advised to ensure passport validity and pack essentials like portable chargers and medication in their carry-on bags.
Ryan Pearson, the UK and Ireland regional manager at Booking.com, emphasized the significance of being prepared for potential disruptions caused by the new entry-exit system. Meanwhile, Advantage Travel Partnership noted a spike in demand for Greek holidays following the country’s decision not to impose EES requirements on UK visitors this summer.
Introduced last October and expanded on April 10, EES allows for temporary suspension of checks during peak periods to prevent long queues. EU regulations grant flexibility in managing entry processes to streamline traveler experiences.