EasyJet has issued a recent update on May 7 for travelers with upcoming flights throughout Europe. The airline advises holidaymakers to allocate ample time at airports during this spring and summer season to avoid missing their flights due to potential delays at passport control caused by the new European Entry/Exit System (EES).
According to the update, passengers may undergo lengthier waits at passport control as the EES may necessitate biometric procedures such as facial image and fingerprint scans at border checkpoints. EasyJet emphasized that they may not be able to accommodate delayed passengers, urging travelers to arrive at airports well in advance.
For travelers availing EasyJet holiday packages with transfers, the airline is coordinating closely with transfer partners to adjust for possible delays at border control. To navigate the new EES requirements, experts advise passengers to arrive several hours before departure to allow time for standard security checks alongside the additional EES procedures.
Travel specialist Kate Donnelly recommends passengers to arrive close to check-in desk opening times to minimize queuing. Airlines like EasyJet typically open check-in desks about two hours before flights to destinations within the EU, such as Spain, France, and Italy. For early morning flights, passengers can explore twilight baggage drop services offered by airlines and airports to expedite the check-in process.
The EES replaces manual passport stamping upon entry to the EU, requiring non-EU nationals visiting the Schengen zone for short stays to scan passports at border kiosks for biometric data collection. The system aims to enhance security, combat irregular migration, prevent identity fraud, and streamline border checks.
Delays have surged due to the recent implementation of the EES, as most passengers have not encountered these mandatory checks before. The list of exemptions to the EES system can be accessed on the EU’s official Travel Europe website. While some EU states have shown resistance, the regulations currently cover 29 European countries, excluding the Republic of Ireland and Cyprus within the EU but outside the Schengen area.
Travelers should familiarize themselves with the EES requirements to ensure a smooth journey and adhere to recommended arrival times at airports to prevent any disruptions.
