Dozens of British holidaymakers faced travel chaos this week after TUI Airways enforced stringent passport regulations, refusing boarding to passengers with even minor document damage.
The airline turned away travellers at Manchester Airport whose passports showed slight wear and tear, including barely visible creases or corner folds. One affected passenger described the ordeal as "devastating" after their family's £2,300 holiday was abruptly cancelled.
What Counts as Passport Damage?
According to UK government guidelines, passports remain valid unless:
- Personal details or photo page are damaged
- Chip or biometric data is compromised
- Pages are missing or severely torn
However, airlines maintain discretion to reject passports showing any signs of wear. TUI's strict interpretation has left many questioning where to draw the line.
Expert Travel Advice
Travel industry specialists recommend:
- Checking passports at least 3 months before travel
- Renewing if any damage is visible
- Keeping documents in protective covers
- Carrying photocopies as backup
The Home Office confirms that over 250,000 British passports are replaced annually due to damage concerns. With summer holidays approaching, this incident serves as a stark warning to all travellers.
