THREE IN FIVE PEOPLE TRAVELLING TO EUROPE AWARE OF NEW EES ENTRY/EXIT SYSTEM

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NEW data from ABTA – The Travel Association reveals 61 per cent of people due to travel to Europe over the next 12 months are already aware of the introduction of EU Entry/Exit System.

ABTA says that 61 per cent is an encouraging level for the launch day of a scheme which will take some six months to be fully introduced. However, ABTA says it also believes that there needs to be a continued and concerted effort across the travel industry to continue to make people aware of the changes, particularly as the phasing in means people’s individual travel experiences will vary over the next six months.

The Association says people should pay careful attention to any information provided by their travel company and transport provider, about when they should arrive at airports or ports. 

ABTA is providing advice to travellers via its website www.abta.com/eesandetias.

Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA – The Travel Association said: “In the longer term, EES should make processes quicker and simpler for travel to Europe.

“Looking at the short term, given the scale of the operation, there may be some delays, particularly at peak travel times. But countries will be stepping up their processes gradually and have the option to stand down the system to avoid significant and lengthy waiting times. We ask that countries remain vigilant and use this contingency measure where needed.

“In the future, once EES is fully rolled out, no passport stamping will be needed and the system may also allow more places to extend the use of egates to UK citizens. Currently, not every country in Europe allows UK travellers to use these, so we’re urging more countries to allow access to egates. It’s good that many places are already doing so, as was my experience travelling through Palma airport this week.

“There is also the option for countries to use an app for EES in the future, which would allow travellers to enter information in advance; we urge all countries involved in EES to look to introduce the app.

“Increasing access to egates and using the EES app will make passport control checks quicker, helping both travellers and border authorities.

“If you have booked a holiday through an ABTA travel company, you can feel reassured that they understand the system and can advise you in advance of your travels.”