Jet2 has advised passengers flying from Faro Airport to arrive as early as possible due to delays caused by the European Union's new Entry/Exit System (EES). The airline issued the guidance on social media following reports of lengthy queues at border control.
The EES, which came into full effect on 10 April, requires British travellers to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and a facial photograph, upon first entry to the Schengen zone. The process takes around one to two minutes per person, but has led to queues of up to three hours at some airports.
Jet2 stated: 'We kindly recommend customers arrive to the airport as early as possible, to allow plenty of time to make it through.' The airline also warned that similar delays could occur on return journeys to the UK, urging passengers to head straight to security and passport control after check-in.
Other airlines, including TUI and easyJet, have issued similar advice. TUI advised passengers to allow extra time at border control and keep essential medication in hand luggage. easyJet warned of longer queues at passport control and urged passengers to proceed to security as early as possible.
The UK government acknowledged that the EES 'may take each passenger extra time to complete', but noted that no pre-travel preparations are required for British travellers.
