Planning a getaway to Europe? Better get to the airport early! New biometric checks introduced by the EU’s entry-exit system (EES) are causing quite a stir, leading to long queues and travel delays. If you’re flying back from an EU destination, you might want to heed the advice of Wizz Air’s Yvonne Moynihan and arrive a full three hours before your flight. Standard advice says two, but with the new system in full swing, a little extra time could save your holiday mood!
The EES swaps the old passport stamps for digital registrations, complete with biometric verification. While some countries are handling the transition well, hot spots like Spain, Portugal, and France are seeing extended wait times at the borders. Instances of queues lasting up to three and a half hours have even been reported at certain airports.
What’s causing the holdup? The biometric checks, especially during peak periods, seem to be the culprit. Though the European Commission mentions that the EES isn’t solely to blame for delays, the transition hasn’t been smooth across all parts of Europe.
So, what’s a traveller to do? Pack a portable charger and some water to keep you and your devices going during wait times. And if you have onward connections, consider giving yourself a generous buffer to avoid missing your flights.
This isn’t just a small hiccup – it’s becoming part of the new travel norm, so prepping in advance might just be your new best travel buddy. Safe travels! ✈️🧳