British holidaymakers are being advised to expect delays at European airports due to new border checks but remain confident in booking future trips. Passengers are urged to arrive three hours before their flight to allow for lengthy queues.
Yvonne Moynihan, the UK head of Wizz Air, highlighted how delays at passport control in some European airports have led to missed flights for some travelers. The Entry Exit System (EES) requiring fingerprint registration has contributed to worsening queues, although the European Commission reports successful implementation at most border points.
ACI Europe recommends passengers follow their airline’s specified airport arrival times. The EES mandates biometric registration for travelers entering and exiting many European countries to enhance security measures.
Despite the system registering over 80 million entries and exits since October, with 35,000 entry refusals, some countries like Greece have temporarily suspended biometric checks for British citizens. Moynihan noted varying impacts of the new checks across Europe, with notable delays in popular destinations like Spain, Portugal, and France.
Passengers are advised to prepare for potential queues upon arriving at the destination airport and before departing back to the UK. Moynihan suggests allowing extra time for connecting flights due to potential delays at border crossings.
While acknowledging initial challenges, Moynihan anticipates increased summer travel volumes to stress the system further and advocates for more countries to suspend checks during peak periods. The European Commission allows for temporary suspension of biometric checks in exceptional circumstances to address excessive wait times.
As summer holidays approach, concerns arise about potential jet fuel supply issues in the Middle East impacting flight schedules. Wizz Air, like other airlines, has seen an increase in last-minute bookings, resulting in competitive pricing strategies to boost demand.
Despite potential fare increases due to high oil prices in the future, Moynihan assures that no shortages or schedule cuts are expected at Wizz Air. The airline may explore cost-saving measures in other areas to mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs.
In separate news, train services to and from Heathrow have been disrupted due to flooding caused by a burst water main, prompting passengers to seek alternative travel arrangements.