Travelers from the UK planning to fly are advised to arrive at the airport three hours early due to increased security checks and potential delays. Wizz Air’s Chief Executive, József Moynihan, emphasized that long waits are becoming common, particularly at popular destinations across Europe.
Increased Wait Times at Airports
Moynihan pointed out that while some areas offer seamless travel, others experience significant delays. Notable hotspots for lengthy queues include:
- Spain
- Portugal
- France
During a recent trip to Mallorca, Moynihan reported no delays thanks to extra staff and numerous EES (Entry/Exit System) kiosks. However, she warned that typical travel conditions have changed, leading to unpredictable wait times.
Preparation for Travel
Passengers should be prepared for possible lengthy queues upon arrival at their destination. Moynihan recommended bringing essentials such as:
- Portable chargers
- Bottled water
The need for additional checks before departing from European airports has resulted in extended waiting times not only before departure but also upon return to the UK. According to Moynihan, “There is another passport check that can lead to delays.”
Advice for Connecting Flights
For travelers with connecting flights, Moynihan suggested allocating extra time between flights. This allows for possible delays due to border queues. In response to growing wait times, border officials are reportedly suspending EES checks periodically.
European Commission Insights
The European Commission noted that while EES checks contribute to delays, they typically take only about a minute to complete. However, Moynihan’s overall advisory remains clear: travel on busy routes merits arriving at the airport three hours in advance.
Being adequately prepared and arriving early can alleviate some of the travel-related stress during peak times.
