The Spanish Confederation of Hotels and Tourist Accommodation (CEHAT) is urging the Ministry of the Interior to enhance security measures at Spain’s international airports. With tourism being a cornerstone of Spain’s economy, the association argues that long wait times at passport control are detrimental to both visitors and the country’s image.
Challenges Facing Spain’s Airports Post-Brexit
Long queues have become a structural issue at key airports, particularly affecting the influx of non-EU passengers. Travelers, especially from the United Kingdom following Brexit, frequently encounter delays. CEHAT states that this situation damages not only the visitors’ experience but also the overall reputation of Spain as a leading tourist destination.
Factors Contributing to the Delays
- Insufficient police presence to manage high passenger volumes.
- Biometric and technological control systems are underperforming.
- Structural problems exacerbate waiting times at border controls.
Jorge Marichal, president of CEHAT, described the situation as “unreasonable.” He highlighted that tourists often face waits exceeding an hour after long flights. These delays are especially burdensome for families with young children, elderly travelers, and those with special needs.
Call for Immediate Action
CEHAT has formally requested the Ministry of the Interior to implement urgent measures. This includes optimizing technological border control systems and aligning resources with growing international tourism demands. Marichal emphasized that first impressions matter: “Spain cannot allow the first contact of millions of visitors with our country to be an endless queue at passport control.”
The Role of the EU Entry Exit System
Starting January 9, the rollout of the EU Entry Exit System (EES) has added additional pressure on airports. While aimed at streamlining passport checks by 2025, initial implementation has seen mixed results. Feedback from the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) suggests that many passengers experience varied conditions—from smooth sailings to long lines at passport control.
Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA, urged border authorities to activate contingency measures to mitigate the risk of prolonged waits as the EES is introduced at more locations. He added, “The EES is a change to how we travel to and from Europe, and while eventually it will make checks quicker, initially it may take longer.”
As the situation stands, stakeholders are pressing for immediate improvements to ensure the satisfaction and safety of travelers entering Spain. The outcomes of these efforts will play a critical role in maintaining the allure of Spain as a premier tourist destination.
