European Union: Lengthy delays reported at airports across EU

Event

Reinforced border controls have been implemented in Schengen countries since March, resulting in long waiting times at checkpoints in airports across the European Union. Facilities particularly affected include airports in Palma de Mallorca (PMI), Lisbon (LIS), Madrid (MAD), Paris (ORY, CDG), Milan (MXP), and Lyon (LYS), among others. Security companies have been criticized for failing to employ more staff despite heightened traffic amid peak tourist season.

According to airline association Airlines for Europe (A4E), thousands of flights have been delayed and numerous passengers have missed their flights as a consequence. Passengers leaving the Schengen Area have been the most severely affected; some British vacationers have reportedly been forced to queue for up to four hours.

These disruptions have caused a strong sense of frustration among passengers, leading to an increase of aggressive behavior, as well as among employees, provoking a number of strikes.

The situation is unlikely to improve as border controls and regulations are set to remain in place until at least October 2017.

Advice

Travelers are advised to arrive earlier than normal at the above airports and to contact their airlines for any additional information.