Jet2 has issued a new message to passengers flying to a popular European destination who need to check in luggage at its desks. The airline responded to holiday-goers on social media after reports of long passport control queues at a well-known European Union (EU) airport.
EU Entry/Exit System Introduced
The new Entry/Exit System of the EU started on April 10, 2026. This system, known as the EES, replaces the old passport stamping system with digital records for every time a traveller enters and exits at Schengen borders. It applies to all travellers who are not from the EU, including British citizens, visiting any of the 29 countries that are part of this system for short visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. When people cross the border, they need to provide biometric information, which includes facial scans and fingerprints, along with their passport information. This data is kept for three years and is checked again when they leave.
Delays at Faro Airport
According to the European Commission, it takes about 70 seconds to register a traveller when the system is operating at peak efficiency. However, since its launch, the EES has faced criticism, with airlines and airport bodies reporting that registration can take far longer, contributing to major delays and hours-long queues at passport control. News of excessive waiting times at EU border checks has left some passengers concerned.
One person took to X to ask Jet2's customer service team whether the check-in desks at Faro Airport in Portugal will be opened earlier. Under the username @Almo0411, they said: "@Jet2tweets given long security passport queues to get out of Faro. Are you opening your bag drop earlier like a few others have done?"
Jet2 replied: "Hi Alex, we appreciate your concerns. The EES registration should only take around 1-2 minutes per person, but may see longer wait times at Border Control. We’re keeping a close eye on things and doing everything we can to minimise the impact to your journey. (1/2)." Sharing an update on the situation so far, they continued: "At the moment, our check in desks won't open any earlier but should this change, our team will contact you directly. If you have any further questions, feel free to send us a DM. ^Ellie (2/2)."
Airport Advice
A statement on Faro Airport's website, as of April 23, reads: "Due to possible constraints on departures border control, longer waiting times are to be expected. Passengers to international (Non Schengen) flights please arrive early at the Airport." In a recent post on its Facebook page, the airport also said: "Due to possible border control constraints, we recommend that passengers on international flights (extra EU) arrive at the airport in greater advance. Plan your trip well and avoid unforeseen things."
