UK holidaymakers preparing for trips to Europe are increasingly concerned about long delays caused by the European Union's new entry-exit system (EES), according to a survey from Booking.com. The research reveals that three in five people heading to Europe this year anticipate being caught up in border check delays, with many fearing they could miss their flights.
Survey Highlights Widespread Concern
The survey, commissioned by Booking.com, found that 59% of UK travellers believe they will experience hold-ups due to the EES. The system requires travellers from third-party countries, including the UK, to register their fingerprints and have their photograph taken when entering the Schengen Area, which comprises 29 European countries, mostly within the EU. For most UK visitors, this process takes place at foreign airports.
Airports Council International recently reported that EES checks have caused delays of up to three hours, with airports in Spain, Portugal, France, and Italy among the worst affected. Last month, more than 100 easyJet passengers missed a flight from Milan Linate to Manchester as border checks intensified at passport desks.
Travelers Adjusting Plans
The survey indicates that 56% of UK travellers plan to arrive at airports earlier than usual to mitigate disruption, with 12% intending to arrive at least four hours before departure. Over half (52%) of respondents who have travelled to the EU since EES was introduced reported experiencing delays, while 43% said they were not delayed.
Families and holidaymakers travelling during the May half-term break have been advised to ensure their passports are valid for their travel dates and to keep essential items such as portable phone chargers and medication in their hand luggage.
Expert Advice and Industry Reaction
Ryan Pearson, regional manager for the UK and Ireland at Booking.com, commented: “May half-term is a key moment in the travel calendar, and we know many people are feeling anxious about how the new entry-exit system could impact their trip. We want to help travellers feel informed and prepared before they leave, whether that’s checking travel documents in advance or packing the right essentials in hand luggage in case of longer queues.” He added: “Changes to the way we travel can understandably feel daunting, but we’re already seeing that many journeys are running smoothly. The key is preparation.”
Shift in Holiday Preferences
Advantage Travel Partnership, a network of independent travel agents, reported earlier this month that demand for holidays in Greece has surged since the country announced on April 17 that it will not impose the EES requirements on UK travellers this summer. Greece's market share of UK holiday bookings rose from 7.7% in mid-April to 9.98% by the end of the month, according to the partnership.
The EES was first introduced in October last year, with its rollout ramped up on April 10. EU rules currently allow the checks to be temporarily halted to avoid queues at peak periods.
