Wizz Air's recommendation that passengers arrive at the airport three hours before their flight has been labelled 'useless' by a travel specialist, who argues that the advice does not align with standard check-in times. The budget airline issued the guidance due to new border control checks under the Entry Exit System (EES), which has caused long queues since its introduction in April.
Travel expert Kate Donnelly, known as @Thedonnellyedit on TikTok, pointed out that most check-in desks only open two hours before departure, and in some cases two and a half hours. She said: 'While this advice appears sensible, the reality is that most check-in desks only open two hours before departure.' According to Wizz Air's website as of June 7, airport check-in and baggage drop-off typically start two hours and close 40 minutes before departure, with some airports opening earlier.
London Luton Airport is the only UK airport where check-in desks open three hours before departure for all travellers. A Wizz Air spokesperson stated: 'While some check-in only opens two hours before, Wizz Air's advice remains the same. Passengers should leave home early and allow extra time to reach the airport.'
Donnelly noted that passengers travelling with hand luggage only might benefit from arriving early, as they can proceed directly to security and duty-free. However, she cautioned that airport processes, such as multiple border controls, could still cause delays. 'If you are travelling to the Schengen area this summer, two hours before your departure is enough time,' she advised, adding that unless airlines open check-in desks earlier and announce gates sooner, the two-hour rule remains sufficient.
The EES system requires first-time users to scan their passport, have a facial photo taken, and provide a four-fingerprint scan, with children under 12 exempt from fingerprints. The digital record lasts three years, after which only a passport scan and one biometric are needed.
