Travel Advisory: Britons Urged to Arrive Three Hours Early at EU Airports
Britons travelling home via EU airports ‘should allow three hours’ before flights

Image: Theguardian
British travelers returning via European airports are advised to arrive three hours before their flights due to delays caused by the new EU entry-exit system (EES). This system, which includes biometric checks for non-EU citizens, has led to longer waiting times, particularly at popular destinations.
- 01The EU entry-exit system (EES) became fully operational last month, replacing passport stamps with digital registration.
- 02Wizz Air CEO Yvonne Moynihan recommends arriving three hours early instead of the usual two hours due to anticipated delays.
- 03Queues at some airports can reach up to 3.5 hours during peak times, according to ACI Europe.
- 04Travelers should prepare for potential long waits at border checks, especially in countries like Spain, Portugal, and France.
- 05Temporary suspensions of checks have occurred at busy locations, such as the port of Dover, to alleviate delays.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
British passengers flying back from European airports are advised to arrive three hours prior to their flights due to significant delays linked to the new EU entry-exit system (EES). This system, which has been gradually implemented since October 2025 and fully operational as of last month, replaces traditional passport stamps with digital registration and includes biometric checks for non-EU travelers. Wizz Air's CEO, Yvonne Moynihan, highlighted that the additional passport checks are causing longer waiting times than expected, particularly at busy airports in Spain, Portugal, and France. While some travelers have experienced smooth transitions, many are facing queues that can last up to 3.5 hours during peak periods. Moynihan also suggested that passengers allow extra time for connecting flights and prepare for potential delays by bringing portable chargers and water. The European airports association ACI Europe noted a deterioration in the situation, with previously efficient airports now reporting excessive waiting times.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Travelers returning to the UK from Europe may face significant delays at airports, impacting their travel plans.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Have you experienced delays at EU airports recently?
Connecting to poll...
More about Wizz Air
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.




