EasyJet Passenger Encounters 'Crazy Shoving Chaos' at Tenerife Airport Over New EU Rules
A British content creator known as Just Deano has described scenes of "absolute chaos" at Tenerife South Airport, where panicked passengers resorted to pushing and shoving over fears of lengthy delays caused by newly implemented European Union travel regulations. Deano, who hails from Huddersfield in Yorkshire, flew from Manchester Airport to the popular Spanish island via EasyJet, expecting significant hold-ups due to widespread reports of disruption.
New Entry/Exit System Sparks Widespread Disruption Across Europe
The newly introduced Entry/Exit System (EES) has been causing major disruptions at several European airports, including those in Spain, Portugal, and Poland. This system requires non-EU nationals, such as British travellers, to register biometric data including fingerprints and facial images upon their first entry into the Schengen area, replacing the traditional passport stamp. The rollout has led to extended waiting times, with some Brits even missing flights as a result.
Deano documented his journey for his subscribers, expressing concern before landing. "What you're really interested in is probably how long it's going to take me to get through to immigration because I've seen reels and posts and videos about this—and apparently it is a nightmare," he said. He anticipated a difficult experience but was met with an unexpected source of trouble.
Passenger Panic Overrides Actual Queues at Tenerife Airport
Upon arrival, it wasn't the immigration process itself that caused issues, but rather the behaviour of fellow travellers. "Everyone is panicking over this issue. So everyone is pushing and shoving past each other. It's chaos. Absolute chaos," Deano reported. Despite the frenzied atmosphere, he managed to clear immigration in just seven minutes, from disembarking the plane bus to passing through border control.
He used an e-gate machine that did not require fingerprints, possibly because he had previously registered his biometrics in other countries. "All that fuss for nothing!" he exclaimed. "Seven minutes, that's all it took. People panicking, pushing and shoving. Crazy. Absolutely crazy."
Technical Glitches and Passenger Frustrations Mount
However, not all travellers have been as fortunate. Many passengers at Tenerife South Airport have reported technical failures with the new system, including fingerprint scanners rejecting data. This has exacerbated delays and heightened tensions. One disgruntled Brit advised, "The key is to arrive three hours early so at least you are in the front of the queue when problems start." Another simply stated, "Love Tenerife but HATE the airport."
In some instances, police have been called to manage the chaos. Deano, who is staying in Tenerife for one week, did not encounter such severe problems during his arrival. After sharing his video online, viewers echoed concerns, with one commenting, "I would hate to be a Brit traveller now." Another recounted a four-hour delay in Barcelona due to similar issues, while a third noted Deano's luck, suggesting his flight might have landed during a quieter period.
The situation has raised alarms about potential travel delays throughout the summer, as Brits navigate the new EU requirements. Despite the initial panic and shoving, Deano's experience highlights that processing times can vary significantly, though the underlying anxiety among passengers remains palpable.
