Travellers from the UK heading to Europe during the Easter season may encounter significant delays at border control, with wait times extending up to two hours due to the implementation of new entry regulations. Airports and airlines are cautioning passengers about potential bottlenecks resulting from the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), which mandates the registration of fingerprints and photographs for all non-EU passport holders entering the Schengen zone.
Commencing today, the EES requires thorough checks for all non-EU arrivals, whereas previously only half of passengers were processed at border points. The Airports Council International (ACI) highlighted a concerning trend of escalating waiting times at border crossings throughout Europe, with delays frequently exceeding two hours during peak periods and some airports experiencing even lengthier queues.
Recent data revealed that over 4,000 holidaymakers have been affected by the new regulations since its soft launch in October, with passenger processing requirements gradually increasing over a six-month period. As the transition period concludes, enhanced scrutiny is expected at border crossings, directing passengers at major airports to self-service kiosks for fingerprinting and photography, while smaller airports will rely on officers for the process.
Industry leaders, including ACI and Airlines for Europe, anticipate prolonged wait times at border control during Easter, emphasizing the need for flexibility in implementing the EES to address operational challenges. EasyJet, the UK’s largest airline, forecasts a record-breaking Easter period, anticipating a surge in passenger numbers compared to the previous year. Government officials have advised travellers to prepare for extended processing times when entering or leaving the EU and recommended checking with airlines for guidance.
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