A British couple faced a costly holiday setback after being turned away from Birmingham Airport due to a common passport mistake. Terry Winter, 56, and his wife Molly, 62, were set to fly to Tenerife on June 12, 2026, but were denied boarding because Terry's passport, though unexpired, had been issued more than 10 years earlier.
Post-Brexit Passport Rule
Under post-Brexit regulations, UK passports must be less than 10 years old on the date of travel to most European countries. Terry, who hadn't traveled since 2018, was unaware of this rule. He said: "I didn't know about this rule. I was shocked." The couple had booked the holiday in January, and Terry had entered his passport details on easyJet's website without any warnings.
Costly Consequences
Terry was forced to pay nearly £1,000 in additional costs, including a new passport via the one-day premium service, hotel stays, and rebooked flights. His wife stayed behind to support him. He noted that easyJet sent a reminder email the day after his missed flight, which he called "pointless."
EasyJet's Response
An easyJet spokesperson stated: "Unfortunately, Mr Winter was unable to fly as his passport did not meet passport validity rules. We remind customers during booking, check-in and by email before they travel." The airline has a dedicated page on its website outlining EU passport requirements.
Terry's experience is not isolated; similar incidents have occurred, highlighting the need for travelers to check passport validity beyond expiration dates.
