Why are there long queues at European airports?
The EU's new Entry/Exit System (EES), which requires biometric checks for non-EU citizens, is causing delays.
Yanuki
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Travel / Travel Tips
Airline Boss Urges Arriving 3 Hours Early for EU Flights: What Travelers Need to Know
New EU border checks are causing significant delays at European airports, leading to potential missed flights and long queues. Travelers returning home should be prepared for longer waiting times.
Key Insights
- Budget airline Wizz Air advises arriving three hours before flights due to increased passport control delays at European airports.
- The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES), which requires biometric registration for non-EU citizens, is causing these delays.
- Airports are experiencing queues up to 3.5 hours despite partial suspensions of EES checks.
- Some countries like Greece are temporarily suspending biometric checks for British citizens to mitigate summer travel disruptions.
In-Depth Analysis
The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) was implemented to replace passport stamps with digital registration, aiming to streamline border control. However, the introduction of biometric checks for non-EU citizens has led to longer queues at airports, especially in popular tourist destinations like Spain, Portugal, and France.
ACI Europe reports that many airports are experiencing excessive waiting times, even with partial suspensions of EES checks. This situation is expected to worsen as passenger volumes increase during the summer peak.
Portugal has announced plans to add 360 more border officers to airports in July to address the long waits. Meanwhile, the European Commission suggests that delays are not solely due to EES and that member states should ensure proper implementation and staffing.
**How to Prepare:** - Arrive at the airport three hours before your flight. - Bring a portable charger and water, as you may encounter long queues. - Allow extra time for connecting flights in case of border delays. - Stay updated on the latest travel advisories and airport announcements.
**Who This Affects Most:** - Non-EU citizens traveling to and from Europe. - Passengers with connecting flights. - Travelers during peak summer holiday season.
FAQ
How early should I arrive for my flight?
Airlines are advising passengers to arrive three hours before their scheduled departure time.
Can EES checks be suspended?
Yes, some countries are temporarily suspending biometric checks to reduce delays.
Takeaways
- Arrive at European airports three hours before your flight to account for potential delays due to new border checks.
- The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) is the primary cause of these delays, requiring biometric registration for non-EU citizens.
- Stay informed about airport conditions and be prepared for longer waiting times, especially during peak travel season.
Discussion
Have you experienced long queues at European airports due to the new border checks? Share your travel experiences and tips in the comments below!
Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
Sources
Disclaimer
This article was compiled by Yanuki using publicly available data and trending information. The content may summarize or reference third-party sources that have not been independently verified. While we aim to provide timely and accurate insights, the information presented may be incomplete or outdated.
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