Travel expert Hayley Sparkes has advised UK travellers to allow at least an extra hour at airports as new EU border procedures cause long queues, warning that airlines or airports may not bear responsibility if a missed flight results.
Biometric checks cause delays
The Entry/Exit System (EES) mandates biometric checks for numerous non-EU travellers and has already generated significant queues at certain major European airports. Speaking to TravelTime Travel Insurance, Sparkes outlined why arriving at the airport even earlier could protect your holiday.
She emphasised that your airline or airport won't necessarily bear responsibility if an extended passport or security queue results in you missing your flight. She also disclosed the common queuing blunder that can cost travellers valuable time, as well as the vital detail buried in travel insurance small print that could leave holidaymakers out of pocket.
Advice for travellers
Sparkes said: "The new Entry/Exit System means eligible British travellers are having biometric information registered and checked, so there can be additional processing, particularly if you're using the system for the first time. My best advice is that it isn't worth the risk of cutting it fine, as it could mean you miss your flight."
"I'd personally be allowing at least an extra hour, especially in busy airports, during the peak summer period or if you will be travelling with children, elderly relatives or anyone who needs special assistance. The mistake is thinking, 'I've got an hour and a half before my flight, I'll be fine.' You need to remember that you've potentially got check-in, bag drop, security and border control, so you must allow for additional time."
Who pays for missed flights?
Sparkes said: "There isn't a simple black and white answer that the 'airport will pay'; it depends on several factors. Don't automatically assume the airline will put you on another flight for free or that your travel insurance provider will cover it. Everything will depend upon the wording in your contracts and individual circumstances."
She advised: "If you end up in this situation, it's always best to speak to the airline before purchasing another ticket. Document all the evidence you can, including photographs of the queue, receipts, boarding passes and any messages from the airport. Take names if you speak to any staff. If you have to pay upfront for a new flight, keep your receipts in case you can claim from your insurance."
Key mistakes and insurance tips
Sparkes said: "I think the biggest mistake is to panic and stay silent. If you can see you're getting dangerously close to your flight time, speak to airport staff. Don't just stand in the queue hoping it will suddenly move; there may be something that staff can do to help you through faster."
She added: "Make sure you have passports and boarding passes at the ready so you don't waste precious time rummaging through bags to find them. It's always a smart idea to take a screenshot of your boarding passes in case the Wi-Fi or your data roaming isn't working."
On travel insurance, she said: "A lot of travellers purchase travel insurance as an afterthought and sometimes only buy it the night before they fly. Ideally, you want to purchase your travel insurance at the same time you book your holiday."
"Your travel insurance policy must begin when you book the holiday so that cancellation cover can start straight away. Do take the time to read what your policy covers and if it is right for you and your family's needs. Don't forget that certain activities like skiing or watersports may need additional cover. Be sure to declare all pre-existing medical conditions accurately. Also check your destinations and any stopovers. Your insurance needs to cover the whole trip, not just the country where you're spending the majority of your trip."
