As summer approaches, UK holidaymakers are being advised to arrive at European airports three hours before their flights. This recommendation comes from Wizz Air’s CEO, Yvonne Moynihan, who highlighted significant delays at passport control due to new border checks. Passengers have reported missing flights because of lengthy queues, particularly in popular destinations like Spain and Portugal.
The European Entry System (EES) is now in effect, but its implementation has been inconsistent, leading to varying experiences across different airports. While some travellers have encountered smooth processing, others have faced waits of up to three and a half hours. This situation is expected to worsen as passenger volumes increase during the peak summer season.
Moynihan suggests that travellers should not only plan for longer waits but also consider the possibility of needing extra time for connecting flights. The European Commission has indicated that member states must ensure adequate staffing at border points to mitigate these delays, but improvements are still needed.
With the summer holiday season approaching, it’s crucial for UK travellers to adjust their plans accordingly. Bringing portable chargers and water can help ease the stress of long waits, and being prepared for potential delays can make for a smoother travel experience.
Source: BBC News