TUI, easyJet, Jet2 and BA issue updates as new EU rule causes airport chaos

Major airlines, including TUI, easyJet and Jet2, have released updates and guidance for passengers following the introduction of the European Union's (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES), encouraging travellers to get to the airport as early as possible.

British holidaymakers travelling overseas have encountered significant disruption since the full rollout of the European Union's (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES). Significant border control queues have been reported at both European and UK airports, alongside missed flights, as thousands of passengers navigate the new digital border system for the first time.

The EES, which became fully operational on Friday, 10 April, requires all Brits travelling to the Schengen zone to "create a digital record" and register their biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph. This is necessary upon their initial arrival at an airport border within the Schengen zone, and following the first registration, the EES remains valid for three years.

The government acknowledged that the EES "may take each passenger extra time to complete, so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border." However, passengers have reported exhausting delays of up to three hours and missed departures, prompting airlines to issue crucial guidance as travellers contend with the new digital border system, reports the Mirror.

In a travel advisory regarding the EES, TUI informed passengers: "At some airports, you might still find longer queues, particularly at busy travel periods. We know this isn't the travel experience you want before, or after your holiday - and it's certainly not the one we want for you - so please know we're doing all we can to support.

"To help your journey run as smoothly as possible, please allow a little extra time when passing through border control. Keep any essential medication in your hand luggage in case of delays, and when departing the EU, head straight to passport control after dropping your bags to avoid hold‐ups. Bringing some extra water for comfort is also a good idea."

In an "important update" issued earlier this month, easyJet cautioned: "Airports across Europe may experience longer queues at passport control whilst the new European Entry /Exit System (EES) border checks are being completed.

"This will mean you may need to have your biometrics taken, including your face and fingerprints scanned." The airline recommended passengers plan their journey to and through the terminal as they might "experience longer queues".

Those needing to check in luggage should "go there as soon as it opens", before proceeding through "security as early as possible". The carrier also warned that there could be additional checks at passport control before the gate, urging passengers to proceed to the gate or boarding area "as soon as it's announced".

easyJet also urged passengers to ensure they carry all necessary documentation for travel, though Brits do not need to make any preparations prior to reaching the border for the EES. The airline additionally cautioned that "longer queues" may be expected upon arrival.

Regarding anticipated delays resulting from the EES and its potential impact on holidaymakers, Jet2 stated: "There may be longer wait times at Border Control at some EU Airports, especially at busy times. Once you start your EES registration, it should take around 1-2 minutes per person to complete.

"There may be longer wait times than usual when you arrive in destination and before your flight back to the UK. Unfortunately, this is outside of our control. But remember, there's nothing you can prep before you travel."

In response to a passenger reporting delays at Faro Airport, Jet2 advised via X: "We kindly recommend customers arrive to the airport as early as possible, to allow plenty of time to make it through."

Concerning the return journey to the UK, Jet2 stated: You'll also need to pass through EES when leaving the EU in the same way you do on arrival. Depending on how busy the airport is, this may result in longer wait times at passport control before boarding your flight to the UK. After checking in for your flight, please head straight to security and passport control in order to arrive at your gate in plenty of time."

On general information about the new digital system, British Airways explained on their website: "You should allow extra time to register your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photo, the first time you enter the EU. There is no cost for EES registration, and your digital record will last three years before you need to register again."

In reply to a query posted on X concerning airport arrival times, a British Airways representative stated: "Hi there. We ask customers travelling on our European short-haul flights to be there two hours prior to departure. It would be three hours if you're travelling on a long-haul flight and one if you're travelling on a domestic flight within the UK."

For further details regarding the new EES system, visit the government website.