As the summer holiday rush kicks off, an estimated 2.2 million Britons are set to travel abroad this weekend, with Spain emerging as the top destination. However, a new entry-exit system (EES) is raising concerns among travellers and officials alike, prompting calls for intervention to ease the anticipated chaos at airports and borders.
Urgent Calls for EES Suspension
Amidst rising frustrations over the EES, Andy Burnham has been urged to take action by directly lobbying European Union leaders for a temporary suspension of the controversial border system. The Liberal Democrats’ foreign affairs spokesperson, Calum Miller, voiced these concerns at Heathrow Airport, stating that the system is “bungled” and “malfunctioning,” and should be paused until at least September.
The EES, which mandates biometric checks for non-EU nationals, was rolled out in full in April after a phased introduction last year. Despite border police relaxing some requirements during peak periods to mitigate delays, many passengers have still faced significant wait times, with some missing flights altogether.
Miller remarked, “Holidaymakers and hauliers should not be punished by a bungled, malfunctioning border system that is completely out of their control.” He further asserted that the fallout from a “disastrous Brexit deal” now threatens to spoil holidays for millions of Britons.
Spain Tops the Travel Charts
According to the travel association Abta, Spain is expected to be the most popular destination this weekend, with Greece, Portugal, Italy, and Turkey also seeing strong demand. Mark Tanzer, Abta’s chief executive, advised travellers to plan ahead, saying, “For many heading overseas, this will be the first experience of EES, and for some, it may take longer than usual to get through passport control.”
While Greece has indicated it will not enforce the additional biometric checks on UK nationals—the majority of its incoming non-EU tourists—technical issues in France have rendered automated passport booths inoperative. This could further complicate matters for those crossing the Channel.
Government Response and Preparations
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has been in discussions with EU officials and her French counterpart, stressing the importance of a smooth travel experience during this peak period. A government spokesperson acknowledged the significant changes the EES brings for British travellers and assured that efforts are underway to minimise disruptions.
Measures include investments in EES facilities and traffic management at the port of Dover, where officials are expecting a surge in holiday traffic. The port anticipates its busiest days on Friday and Saturday, with over 10,000 additional vehicles expected, though queue times have reportedly remained manageable, ranging from 10 to 40 minutes.
However, as holidaymakers return from Europe, concerns persist over the efficiency of the EES. EasyJet has called on the EU to extend flexibility regarding the system until the end of October, highlighting the strain it may place on returning passengers.
Why it Matters
The looming complications surrounding the EES system could spell disaster for millions of Britons hoping to enjoy a seamless summer holiday. As calls grow for a suspension of the system, the government faces mounting pressure to ensure that travel remains a pleasure rather than a source of frustration. With the stakes high for both the travel industry and holidaymakers, the outcome of these discussions could significantly impact the future of cross-Channel travel.
