Andrew McClements, customer experience and transformation director at TPE, said, “We’re pleased to be introducing services that give customers more choice, added flexibility, and an improved overall experience when travelling with us.”
Other changes to the TPE timetable will see an update to 08.05am weekday services between Leeds and Manchester Piccadilly come into place.
The regular service will begin to call at Dewsbury.
This is to help commuters and students with early morning commutes and to better connect them to the city.
TPE is also urging customers to check their usual routes to see if they have been impacted by the timetable changes.
It said, “Although most of our services are unchanged, we encourage customers to take a moment to check any journeys they make regularly.”
The airport train service will run through the nightCredit: Alamy Stock Photo
A skincare expert has shared which beauty products are likely to cause problems at airport security due to hand luggage liquid rules – and how to avoid any hold-ups
Certain products can cause delays(Image: PoppyPixels via Getty Images)
With summer getaways fast approaching, countless holidaymakers are gearing up to travel overseas. As skincare continues to surge in popularity, many will be packing their creams and serums – yet skincare specialists are cautioning that transporting these products can prove more complicated than anticipated.
Skincare specialist Rhysa Phommachanh explained: “Many travellers are now packing full skincare routines in their hand luggage, but it can be confusing knowing which products are allowed. As a general rule, if a product can be spread, rubbed, or sprayed, it will usually fall under airport liquid restrictions.”
For instance, numerous skincare products nowadays appear as jellies, balms and sticks.
All of these are classified as liquids by airport security, as are sheet masks and eye patches.
Failing to adhere to airport security regulations could result in travel disruptions or having your belongings seized.
To conserve luggage space, travellers sometimes transfer larger items into smaller containers to meet requirements.
Nevertheless, these unidentified containers can prompt queries at security and trigger manual inspections, which can prove time-consuming.
It’s also probable that any pressurised containers such as facial mists, setting sprays or spray sunscreens will require manual examination and slow down security lines.
It is crucial to familiarise yourself with the regulations at each airport you pass through, as updated liquid rules are gradually being introduced across the country.
Restrictions may vary from one airport to another, so ensure you are fully aware of the specific guidelines before you board your flight.
When it comes to skincare, a minimalist approach often yields the best results.
As reported by the Express, Rhysa said: “A more simplified approach tends to work best for long-haul travel.
“Basic essentials such as lip balm, a lightweight moisturiser, or a facial mist are usually more than enough to maintain hydration without overwhelming the skin barrier.”
FROM flight cancellations caused by the Iran war to massive airport queues caused by new travel entry rules – going on holiday has never been so stressful.
Even myself – who travels abroad every month – approached the airport with trepidation this week.
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I managed to avoid the huge queues on a trip to SpainThere’s been massive queues across Europe in recent weeksCredit: AlamyWith none of the e-gates open, I managed to still get to the front of the queue
My latest trip took me to the city of Bilbao, following the launch of new TUI city breaks to the Spanish city.
But before I could be excited for cheap wine and pinxtos, I was ready to be stuck in the airport for hours on end.
The new European rules – called the Entry/Exit System or EES – have resulted in massive problems especially at busy airports.
More than 80 passengers missed their Ryanair flight because of huge airport queues in Marseille, while over 100 people were left stranded when an easyJet flight to Manchester left without them.
This is because of the requirement of biometric checks from all Brits which includes fingerprint scanning, and is a much slower process than passport stamping.
So after arriving late into Bilbao on a Friday, it’s safe to say I was prepared.
My first chaos-avoiding trick? Book a seat as close to the front as possible.
This will mean you can get off the plane as quickly as possible, meaning you can be at the front of the queue.
I was in row 5 out of 36, so was easily one of the first off the plane.
But this doesn’t always work depending on the airline and airport.
This is because many of them don’t have direct access to the airport via jet-bridge and instead offer the dreaded bus service to taxi you to the building.
Thankfully, there is a way to make sure you are still at the front of the queue even if you pile on.
The best way is to go to the very first bus, and go to the front doors.
Then, rather than piling to the back of the bus for a seat, stay in the middle of the doors on either side.
This means that you will be delivered directly to the airport security entrance and, no matter what side the doors open, you will be at the front.
Both of these tricks allowed me to be fewer than 10 people back when trying to get through airport security.
This still saw me waiting around 25 minutes and, frustratingly, unable to use the empty e-gates and instead stuck in the one-man security queue.
Not only that, but each person was taking at least 1-2 minutes due to the slow machines – so you can imagine how many hours that will take if there are more than 100 passengers on a flight.
But, it was reassuring when I saw how long the queue was behind me, and meant I avoided the majority of the queue.
The new EES rules explained
All non-EU nationals – which includes Brits – are required to register their details on their first visit to a Schengen area country.
This will be done by using specific EES machines which will be at airports, ferry terminals and the Eurostar terminals.
The machines will log your fingerprints, facial images and scan your passport as well.
Once you have registered (such as taking fingerprints and a photo), it is valid for three years, or until your passport expires if it is earlier than this.
EES does not cost anything and is free for all travellers.
I would also suggest that if concerned, fly to a smaller airport where there are fewer UK flights.
This means far fewer passengers travelling through the airport at any one time.
It is also worth avoiding arriving at the same time as other UK flights which you can easily see from airport departure boards.
This is because it is mainly Brits needing to do these checks, not other Europeans, so if there are lots of flights landing at the same time, this will see hundreds more passengers all queueing at the same time.
Airports which have been hit by the chaos recently have included Schipol Airport in Amsterdam, being a major hub, as well as Milan Airport in Italy and Lisbon and Faro Airport in Portugal.
Or – avoid it entirely by travelling to destinations which aren’t following the ne EES rules.
The European Union’s (EU) Entry/Exit System (EES) has caused major travel disruptions across European airports, and a travel expert has issued three key checks every traveller should do
A travel expert has advised on three vital checks Brits should do before heading to the airport(Image: Getty Images/Stock Photo)
A travel expert said there are three key checks every holidaymaker should make before heading to the airport, following the new EU rules.
As of April 10, 2025, the European Union’s (EU) Entry/Exit System (EES) was fully implemented across European airports. It requires all Brits travelling to the Schengen area to “create a digital record” and register their biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photograph.
The new digital border system has replaced manual passport stamping, and after the initial registration, the EES remains valid for three years. While it’s only needed for the first arrival at the airport border in the Schengen area, it’s caused major travel chaos as thousands of British holidaymakers register with the new system, leading to significant queues and delays of up to four hours across European airports.
Adam Edinburgh, Head of Travel and New Products at Post Office Insurance, told the Mirror: “Passengers may be impacted by facing longer queues initially due to biometric data collection, a process expected to take several minutes per person.
“Passengers should be encouraged to plan contingency options if travelling on a tight schedule (alternative routes or transport), as any teething problems or incomplete information could cause delays to miss flights, ferries, or connections.”
The travel expert also outlined three vital checks that Brits should do before heading to the airport, in a bid to make their journey as smooth as possible following the rollout of the EES. He advised:
“Check your passport expiry date (must be valid for at least 3 months after your trip for EU countries)
“Know your entry airport’s EES setup (expect biometric checks)
“Keep essential travel documents easily accessible, including passports, travel insurance, accommodation confirmation, and proof of onward or return travel.”
Explaining exactly how the EES works, Adam said: “Travellers entering for the first time will undergo biometric registration at border kiosks or e-gates. This includes the system capturing a facial image, fingerprints (if visa-exempt), passport details, and entry/exit information.
“For subsequent visits, the process will be faster due to the data already being stored. It’s important to note that no pre-registration is required – registration happens at the border during your first entry. “
Countries in the Schengen area include: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. The EES system is not required for travel into the Republic of Ireland and Cyprus, as they are not within the Schengen area, and Greece has relaxed its EU requirements for Brits, ditching the need for biometric details.
A SMALL European country without the crowds has revealed huge plans to overhaul its airport.
Luxembourg Airport is getting a huge £871million makeover that will eventually accommodate 10million passengers a year.
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Luxembourg Airport has revealed plans for a £871million upgradeCredit: lux-AirportTerminal A will be expanded and Terminal B will be rebuiltCredit: lux-Airport
Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team onInstagramandTiktokfor top holiday tips and inspiration@thesuntravel.
Works at Terminal A will focus on extending the current terminal to the airport’s tram stop and creating a new, modern security area with the latest technology by 2028.
There will also be an improved check-in area and bag drop-off area by 2028, to help passengers to move through the airport quicker.
By 2032, the disused underground station at the airport will be transformed into a baggage sorting area too.
On the other hand, Terminal B will be completely redeveloped.
It will be transformed into a two-storey building with six new boarding gates, which passengers will have to hop on shuttle buses to get to.
The airport as a whole will get a number of other upgrades as well, such as the air traffic control tower as well as a new business aviation centre and VIP lounge set to open in 2029.
Aircraft parking across the airport will also increase from 27 spaces to 53, with additional boarding bridges too.
The airport hopes that the development will help the airport to handle up to double the amount of passengers it currently does (5.2million) to 10million passengers a year, by 2050.
A huge project is also going on around the airport that will see over 44 acres transformed into new offices, shops, restaurants and even a VIP terminal.
Dubbed the ‘Airport City’, travellers will be able to shop and dine at places including Starbucks and Oberweis restaurant in an area with a “unique metropolitan feel”.
The Airport City will even have a new hotel with the Skypark Business Centre North Hotel having over 200 rooms.
Then at Skypark Business Centre South, there will be a shopping centre and direct access to the terminal.
There is also another project at the airport to create an ‘Airport City’ with shops and restaurantsCredit: lux-Airport
Luxembourg is surrounded by Belgium, France and Germany and tends to be a lesser-visited country in Europe.
In total, around one million people visit the country each year, whereas around 19million visit Belgium, over 100million visit France and over 37million visit Germany.
If heading to the capital, Luxembourg City, you will find a UNESCO listed medieval old town sat at the edge of steep cliffs.
The country as a whole is a great destination for keen hikers too with over 3,000 miles of trails through Ardennes forests and vineyards.
A major plus of visiting the country is that public transport is free across Luxembourg for everyone.
Luxembourg was also named one of the best places in the world for quality of life, last year.
Despite being home to just under 700,000 people, the Numbeo Quality of Life index placed the country top across a number of categories including the cost of living and house price to income ratio.
The country was also named among the happiest countries in the world last year, according to the World Happiness Report 2025.
The report recognised the country’s strong economy, as well as its social support network, with residents claiming that they have a good personal freedom.
You can fly direct to Luxembourg from the UK from London City, London Heathrow and London Stansted airports.
A one-way flight from these airports in May costs from £15 per person and only takes an hour.
A NEW airport has opened on the world’s largest island giving travellers direct access to an area dubbed the “Riviera of the North”.
The new hub is expected to boost tourism in one of the Arctic’s most remote regions.
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Qaqortoq in Greenland is popular with visitors looking to try kayaking and whale-watchingCredit: carstenbrandt
Visitors can now travel by air to Qaqortoq in Greenland to visit an area famous for kayaking and whale-watching.
Anne Nivika Grødem, director of Visit Greenland, said: “South Greenland offers a rare combination of powerful nature and a living culture shaped over generations.
“Improved access allows us to welcome visitors with greater intention – encouraging travel with curiosity [and offering] more meaningful experiences for our guests.”
Greenland’s prime minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen travelled on the new airport’s first flight.
While more than 30,000 passengers disembark from cruise ships at Qaqortoq every year, less than 2,000 tourists on average stay overnight each year.
Before the opening of the airport, travellers looking to visit Qaqortoq would have to travel two days on a ferry or arrive by helicopter.
The town is 300 miles from the capital, Nuuk.
Air Greenland is to operate two daily 75-minute direct flights between Nuuk and Qaqortoq year-round.
This is expected to rise 17 weekly services in summer, while Icelandair plans to run four weekly summer flights to and from Keflavík, starting from June 2.
In recent years, Greenland has been working to boost visitor numbers.
Earlier this year US President Donald Trump’s threats to invade Greenland resulted in a 46% increase in foreign guests – most of them Americans.
The town is 300 miles from the capital, NuukCredit: Posnov
As the European Union’s (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES) is fully introduced, airlines have issued advice on what time Brits should arrive at the airport to avoid disruptions
11:45, 20 Apr 2026Updated 12:49, 20 Apr 2026
Brits have faced travel chaos amid the new border control system(Image: Getty Images/Stock Photo)
Airlines including TUI, easyJet and Jet2 have issued updates and travel advice amid the rollout of the European Union’s (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES), urging travellers to arrive at the airport as ‘early as possible’.
Brits heading abroad have been hit with major travel disruptions following the rollout of the European Union’s (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES). There have been reports of lengthy border control queues at European and UK airports, along with missed flights, as thousands of holidaymakers pass through the new digital border system for the first time.
The EES, which was fully implemented on Friday, 10 April, requires all Brits travelling to the Schengen area to “create a digital record” and register their biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photograph. It is required for their first arrival at the airport border in the Schengen area, and after the initial registration, the EES remains valid for three years.
The government noted that the EES “may take each passenger extra time to complete, so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border.” Yet, travellers have reported gruelling delays of up to three hours and missed flights, and airlines have issued key advice to passengers as they grapple with the new digital border system.
TUI
In a travel alert on the EES, TUI advised passengers: “At some airports, you might still find longer queues, particularly at busy travel periods. We know this isn’t the travel experience you want before, or after your holiday – and it’s certainly not the one we want for you – so please know we’re doing all we can to support.
“To help your journey run as smoothly as possible, please allow a little extra time when passing through border control. Keep any essential medication in your hand luggage in case of delays, and when departing the EU, head straight to passport control after dropping your bags to avoid hold‑ups. Bringing some extra water for comfort is also a good idea.”
easyJet
In an “important update” released earlier this month, easyJet warned: “Airports across Europe may experience longer queues at passport control whilst the new European Entry /Exit System (EES) border checks are being completed.
“This will mean you may need to have your biometrics taken, including your face and fingerprints scanned.” They advised passengers to plan their travel to and through the airport as they may “experience longer queues”.
Travellers who need to drop off their bags should “go there as soon as it opens”, and then make their way through “security as early as possible”. They further cautioned that there could be additional checks at passport control before the gate, and that passengers should go to the gate or boarding area “as soon as it’s announced”.
easyJet added that travellers should ensure they have all the correct documents required for travel, although Brits do not need to do anything before arriving at the border for the EES. They further warned that there could be “longer queues” at their arrival airport.
Jet2
On expected delays from the EES, and how it could impact holidaymakers, Jet2 said: “There may be longer wait times at Border Control at some EU Airports, especially at busy times. Once you start your EES registration, it should take around 1-2 minutes per person to complete.
“There may be longer wait times than usual when you arrive in destination and before your flight back to the UK. Unfortunately, this is outside of our control. But remember, there’s nothing you can prep before you travel.”
Meanwhile, in response to a traveller following delays at Faro Airport, Jet2 advised on X: “We kindly recommend customers arrive to the airport as early as possible, to allow plenty of time to make it through.”
For travel back into the UK, Jet2 said: “You’ll also need to pass through EES when leaving the EU in the same way you do on arrival. Depending on how busy the airport is, this may result in longer wait times at passport control before boarding your flight to the UK. After checking in for your flight, please head straight to security and passport control in order to arrive at your gate in plenty of time.”
British Airways
On general information about the new digital system, British Airways explained on their website: “You should allow extra time to register your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photo, the first time you enter the EU. There is no cost for EES registration, and your digital record will last three years before you need to register again.”
In response to a question on X about arrival times at the airport, a member of British Airways said: “Hi there. We ask customers travelling on our European short-haul flights to be there two hours prior to departure. It would be three hours if you’re travelling on a long-haul flight and one if you’re travelling on a domestic flight within the UK.”
A flight attendant has revealed the best way to save money ahead of a holiday abroad, and it could cost just £4.99 and save travellers £100 if they are ‘proactive’
There’s a handy way to save money on getting to the airport, and it’s about being ‘proactive’(Image: Getty Images/Stock Image)
A flight attendant has revealed a savvy £4.99 hack for holidaymakers that could help them cut costs on their next getaway.
We’re always on the lookout for ways to save some extra cash, whether that’s a packing tip to avoid paying for luggage, being flexible with our travel dates to secure the best price, or flying from a different airport. One sure way to save money is how you get to the airport, with parking prices astronomical at some airport hubs, which can reach as much as £132 for a week’s stay or £8 for every five minutes at a drop-off area.
In a bid to avoid these unwanted charges, some travellers opt to be dropped off at the airport, while others book their parking months in advance or a car park farther from the airport to secure a lower price. However, Wizz Air cabin crew member Adam Hodge, 35, has outlined a vital hack for getting to the airport, and it could cost just £4.99.
Speaking exclusively to the Mirror, Adam, who is based at Luton Airport, revealed: “You can get some really cheap deals on the trains and the bus.
“In Luton, for example, there’s now going to be two coach operators,National Express and FlixBus, so it means there’s going to be even more affordable options to get from the centre of London or the surrounding area, such as Cambridge, Milton Keynes and as far as Gatwick.
“If you book in advance, you can get a ticket, with FlixBus for example, for as little as £4.99.
“For National Express, if you have a coach pass, you can get fares from as little as £10 one-way, to and from the centre of London, Gatwick or one of the connecting airports.”
But that’s not the only affordable option. Adam highlighted: “At Luton Airport, there are also two train operators, Thames Link and East Midlands Railway.
“On East Midlands Railway, you can get a fare to St Pancras from Luton Airport Parkway or Luton for as little as £4.95, if you book and plan in advance. It has to be the specified train at the specified time, but if you’re flexible and want to save some money, you can get some really cheap fares if you book ahead.”
He added: “It’s about being proactive and saving a bit of money, especially with the cost of living crisis. And I think it’s actually very savvy and fashionable to be seen saving money, and being more money-conscious.”
While Adam mentioned Luton Airport, most UK airports also offer similar bus and coach services, so it’s well worth checking in advance to plan your route and secure the best price. And with some prices starting as low as £4.99, it’s a no-brainer.
Having travelled to around 30 countries, with Prague and Tirana being his personal favourites,
Away from airport travel, Adam has a wealth of other knowledge and advice, having visited around 30 countries, with Prague and Tirana being his personal favourites. One piece of advice is about what he packs, and there’s one item he never travels without.
“I had been looking at this item for a while, and I wasn’t sure at first, but now I have them, I’ve got them in all my suitcases, my crew bag and cabin bag,” Adam told the Mirror.
He revealed: “They are suitcase packing cubes, and are like little pouches. The worst thing is when you open a suitcase, and everything falls out, but with the packing cubes, everything is organised.
“For example, you have your electricals, your tops, trousers and shoes, they fit everything in organised cases, and you can actually fit more in, so it’s a really good hack. They don’t take up any space, so when they’re empty, they just lie flat, and they’re not bulky.”
To check out Adam’s public transport recommendations to the airport, visit the National Express or FlixBus websites. Or for more information about Wizz Air flights or to book your next trip, visit their website.
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
Save stress and time if your holiday is due to start in the early hours of the morning
It’s one less thing you have to stress about when getting to the airport at 4am(Image: Joan Valls/Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
People can start their holiday quicker than others when flying with Jet2 and taking advantage of a little-known service that lets families skip the queues. Planning this ahead of time can make early morning flights feel “a whole lot easier”.
On its website, Jet2 claims the Twilight Check-in service can be used by any passengers booked to fly on a service due to leave the airport before midday. Later flights in the afternoon or evening cannot benefit from this perk.
A spokesperson said: “Your morning flight is about to get a whole lot easier. With our free Twilight Check-in service, you can drop your bags off at your UK departure airport between 4.30pm and 9pm the evening before your morning flight.
“Thanks to Twilight Check-in, when you arrive at departures the next day, your luggage is already sorted. If you live near the airport or are staying at a nearby hotel, it’ll make your morning a little easier.”
Flights leaving before midday are extremely common at UK airports. People tend to opt for these early departures to make the most of their holiday time rather than leaving the UK later.
The following UK airports offer the free Jet2 Twilight Service:
Birmingham
Bristol
East Midlands
Edinburgh
Glasgow International
Leeds Bradford
Liverpool
London Gatwick
London Luton
London Stansted
Manchester
Newcastle
The process of pre-checking luggage the night before can save time and hassle on the morning of the trip. Jet2 claims that people don’t need to book this service specifically in advance, but people do need to check in online “no later than 24 hours before their flight”.
Some UK airports offer discounted or free limited-time parking to customers who use Twilight Check-in. The Jet2 website lists 10 that offer this for customers, but stresses that travellers should check for themselves using the Airport Information page on its website.
People who want to use this service will need to remember to bring their boarding passes and passports along with bags (excluding hand luggage). After completing everything, get some rest and, on the day of the flight, Jet2 claims people can simply “bypass check-in and head to security”.
It only takes one person from your group to check in and drop off bags for up to six people travelling on the same booking reference. For full details of how the free service works, click here.
Many passengers are facing waits of up to three hours at Spanish airports due to the new controls
Robert Rowlands Deputy editor, money and lifestyle, content hub and Maria Ortega
16:02, 16 Apr 2026
(Image: Bloomberg, Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Travellers in Spain are experiencing significant delays at airports. And experts are warning that one particular group is bearing the brunt of new border controls, according to a Spanish travel organisation.
There have been widespread reports of waiting times of up to three hours. New regulations have been introduced, with some passengers in particular facing very long waits.
Spanish media reports indicate waiting times of up to three hours at Palma airport alone, with similar delays reported in France, Greece, Italy and beyond. Travel group Aviba is now calling for urgent measures to prevent chaos this coming summer.
Pedro Fiol, president of the travel association, is demanding immediate action to avert disruption this summer, and has revealed he has been pushing for such measures for months, according to Ultimata Hora. The new system has only just been introduced, having fully launched on April 10, following a trial period that began late last year.
The EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) initially began operations on 12 October 2025, with a phased rollout across 29 European countries. Now it is fully in place.
The system replaces passport stamping with digitally recorded entries, exits or refusals of entry of non-EU nationals arriving for short stays. Travellers’ facial images, fingerprints and personal data from the travel document will also be recorded.
Mr Fiol said: “The implementation of the new European Border and Security System (EES) is already beginning to be felt at the Balearic airports, especially at Son Sant Joan, the main gateway to Mallorca, where we are still operating with a hybrid model. At certain times, it is causing some slowdowns in the controls, particularly for non-EU passengers.”
He warned that “we are facing a structural change in how borders are managed across Europe: biometric registration is replacing manual passport stamping, and this means more time for the passenger’s first contact with their destination.” In his view, so far “the experience has been inconsistent: some days the operation runs relatively smoothly, while others, according to agencies and tour operators, can take more than two hours from the moment the plane lands until the traveller collects their luggage, and even nearly three hours in some specific cases.”
Ultima Hora reports that the National Police have acknowledged the delays, though they say they have seen no evidence of prolonged hold-ups. Sources close to the security forces have told Spanish media that additional staff have been deployed during peak hours in a bid to ease any difficulties that may occur during periods of heavy passenger congestion at checkpoints.
Travellers passing through airports in countries including France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Spain and Greece are facing waits of several hours at border controls, according to the Airports Council International (ACI). Olivier Jankovec, the director of the ACI European division, told the Financial Times: “This situation, in the coming weeks and certainly over the peak summer months, is going to be simply unmanageable.
“We are seeing those queueing times now, at peak times, when traffic is just starting to build up.” A spokesperson for the European Commission told the Guardian: “What we can see from the first days of full operation is that the system is working very well. In the overwhelming majority of member states there are no issues.”
The commission said that the average registration of a passenger was 70 seconds, although the ACI has claimed that it can take up to five minutes. The spokesperson said there were a “few member states where technical issues have been detected” but that they “are being addressed”.
They said: “It is up to member states to ensure the proper implementation of the EES on the ground.” Luke Fitzpatrick, from independent travel agency Perfect Getaways, told the BBC this week that travellers should plan ahead to make border checks as smooth as possible.
“It’s about being as prepared as you can be,” Fitzpatrick told BBC Radio Merseyside. “There is a lot of uncertainty at the moment as people are getting used to the new system.”
While he said the advice was to arrive at the airport “at least three hours early”, he said it could be more difficult for people booked on a package holiday. “If you’re on a shared transfer back, everyone’s coming together at the same time,” he said.
EES changes and the impact on transfer and pick-ups
Pedro Fiol told Ultima Hora that “this situation is forcing a restructuring of transfer and pick-up operations at destinations to better co-ordinate exact times, avoid additional downtime, and guarantee the smoothest possible service.” Given this situation, he says that “travel agencies are concerned that if resources are not properly allocated at airports with such high tourist pressure as those in the Balearic Islands, significant queues and a negative first experience for visitors are possible.”
What do Brit tourists need to do with EES rules?
The govuk website states that “if you are travelling to a country in the Schengen area for a short stay using a UK passport, you may be required to register your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photo, when you arrive. You do not need to take any action before you arrive at the border, and there is no cost for EES registration.
“EES registration is replacing the current system of manually stamping passports when visitors arrive in the EU. EES may take each passenger extra time to complete so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border.”
The countries in the Schengen area are: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Simon Hinchley, Executive Director for Airport Operations at Fly Doncaster said: “As we work towards reopening Doncaster Sheffield Airport, our focus is firmly on building a safe, efficient and operationally robust airport that is ready to serve a broad range of users from day one.”
In early 2025, the UK government revealed that £30million was being put towards its reopening.
More recently, a report for City of Doncaster Council’s cabinet announced that the cost of reopening the airport had risen to £193million.
Fly Doncaster said that when the airport reopens, it could see as many as four million passengers through its doors.
There has also been talks of a rail link to and from the airport that could have connections with the Lincoln Line and East Coast Mainline.
Prior to its closure, airlines like FlyBe, Wizz Air and TUI operated flights from Doncaster Sheffield.
As of yet, no airline has confirmed it will open base, but Doncaster East and Isle of Axholme Labour MP Lee Pitcher said last year that he was in talks with both Ryanair and TUI.
In July 2025, he told local media: “Yesterday, I chaired the latest meeting of the DSA Action Group, where we sat down with TUI’s UK & Ireland commercial director.
“It was a productive discussion, and we’ll continue to work withTUI, other key stakeholders, and push the Government to keep Doncaster Sheffield Airport firmly on the agenda.“
The airportis expected to be operational with passenger flights forsummer2028.
The airport closed back in 2022Credit: Alamy
Another airport that is in talks to reopen is Manston Airport,in Kent which once offered flights from the UK toEurope.
Passenger services stopped when KLM pulled out of the airport in 2014.
There have been talks to start commercial flights once again, but this could take longer to start.
Tony Freudmann – the public face of the site’s owners, RiverOak Strategic Partners toldKent Online: “We need, by the time we open, to have enough advance commitment from cargo operators to see that it is going to work.
“At that point, if we get the right approach from passenger carriers, wanting us to build a passenger terminal and base some aircraft here, we’ll go with that.”
This harmless item isn’t banned by any airline, and many people pack it in their hand luggage, but the shape of it can trigger warning signs at airport security and see you getting held up in the queue
Nobody wants to be held up at the airport(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Airport security is one of the worst parts of flying, so once you’ve finally got to the front of the queue, you don’t want anything to delay your progress any further.
Once you put that bag on the conveyor belt, you want it to come through quickly so that you can get on with more important tasks, such as perusing the duty free shop. Nobody enjoys that sense of dread when your bag is stuck in the scanner, or even worse, sent off to the lane of shame to be examined by hand.
But many travellers don’t realise that an innocuous item could be the thing that’s halting their progress through the scanners as it’s shape can raise the suspicions of airport staff.
If you’re off on holiday somewhere with bad WiFi, or simply want something fun to do in the evening, you might be planning on bringing a deck of playing cards, UNO, or other card game.
Trading cards such as Pokémon have also had a huge revival in recent years, and some people even travel with a set of tarot cards so they can do readings on holiday. But packing any set of cards, whether collectible or mystical, can cause a security issue.
A spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), who deal with airport security in the United States, told Travel and Leisure that they recommend people still place their cards in their carry on bag, especially if they’re valuable items like collectible trading cards.
Ian Cava from the TSA explained that it was the shape of the cards that can trigger additional checks, and it can make it seem like there’s something hidden inside. “Trading and playing cards can sometimes trigger additional screening because of the way they are packed and their density.
“When items are stacked tightly together, like decks, binders, or graded slabs, the X-ray image can make it difficult for officers to confirm there are no prohibited items concealed in or around them.”
Ian’s recommendation is that travellers should remove the cards from their hand luggage and place it in the tray next to the bag, alongside items like their mobile phone. “This helps speed up the process and reduces the likelihood of delays,” he claimed.
But if the cards still don’t show clearly on the scanner, don’t be alarmed if the airport security staff need to carry out a physical inspection. Travellers with large and bulky card collections should ensure they leave additional time for security screening.
A pack of cards isn’t the only thing that can see you held up at security. There are a number of personal items banned from hand luggage that could cause you issues. Many items are banned due to being sharp and potentially dangerous, but even innocuous items such as corkscrews could potentially be confiscated.
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It’s crucial to be well prepared before heading to the airport on holiday, and there’s one mistake to avoid, otherwise face forking out an extra £55 per person at the airport
There’s a key mistake to avoid before jetting off abroad (Image: Bloomberg via Getty Images)
There’s a common check-in mistake that could see Brits charged an extra £55 per person at the airport.
There’s a lot to think about when it comes to jetting off abroad; from finding the right sun-soaked destination, the most affordable flights, suitable accommodation, and a desirable itinerary. Inbetween the planning and excitement, there are also some vital pre-holiday preparations that are needed.
Whether that’s obtaining travel insurance, securing a visa, checking passport validity, arranging a lift or taxi to the airport, packing the suitcases, or booking a dog or house sitter. But during any pre-trip planning, there’s a key task that holidaymakers can miss, and it will cost extra with Ryanair.
While travellers will have their flight details to hand, often via the airline app or an email, some forget to check in online. For holidaymakers flying with Ryanair, they will be charged £55 per person to check in at the airport, when they could have checked in online for free.
For a family of four, this could see them fork out a whopping £220 before their getaway even begins. It’s a mistake and an extra cost that can easily be avoided by checking into their flight when it opens online.
Ryanair passengers with a pre-reserved seat, which are usually at an extra cost, can check in online up to 60 days before their scheduled departure. Meanwhile, those without a reserved seat, which is free, can check in online 24 hours before their flight, and can often choose a seat for free if one is available.
To check in online with Ryanair, travellers must have a valid travel document, such as a passport or National Identity Card. The airline confirmed that they “do not accept a driver’s license or birth certificates for travel to any location” and advised that there are different rules for various destinations, so Brits should check these before travelling.
For anyone who doesn’t check in online, Ryanair warned: “If you do not check in online up to 2 hours before your scheduled departure time, you may check in at the airport up to 40 minutes before departure, but you will be charged an airport check-in fee.”
They added: “We urge all passengers to check in online before arriving at the airport so these fees can be avoided.”
In further information about checking in at the airport, Ryanair stated: “You will have to pay an airport check-in fee per passenger to cover the extra cost of the airport check-in service. Please see our Table of Fees.”
On the Ryanair website, they further outlined: “If you checked in but cannot present your boarding pass on the app when you arrive at the airport, you will receive a free of charge boarding pass.”
They also added: “Please note: All passengers departing from a Moroccan airport must check-in online as normal and then collect a free of charge boarding pass at the airport check-in desk.”
For more information or to check Ryanair’s details, visit their website.
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A little-known airport rule could mean your phones or laptops are confiscated – and it applies in the UK affecting passengers with the likes of TUI, BA, Ryanair and easyjet
12:19, 13 Apr 2026Updated 12:20, 13 Apr 2026
Airport security check before flight. Passenger holding plastic bag with liquids above container with laptop and personal items.(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Brits should take heed of a little-known airport rule that could mean your phone or laptop gets confiscated before you’ve even boarded your flight.
The restriction is enforced at airport security, and has been known to catch out passengers flying on the likes of TUI, British Airways, Ryanair, or easyJet, and more, as the airlines themselves don’t enforce it.
Most of us take at least one electrical item in our luggage, be it a mobile phone, tablet, or laptop, and no doubt yours will hold your boarding pass and maybe a Netflix show or two to enjoy along the way. However, should you get to airport security and find your battery is at 0%, then you may have a problem. All electrical devices need to be powered up, as airport staff are allowed to ask you to turn these items on.
If a flat battery stops you from doing this, then you may be refused boarding, or may have to make the choice to leave your item behind. The UK government’s official website, which provides extensive travel guidance and updates, states: “Make sure your electronic devices are charged before you travel. If your device does not switch on when requested, you will not be allowed to take it onto the aircraft.”
Should you make the mistake of having an uncharged device in your hand luggage, the choices vary depending on the airport you’re travelling from and your airline. If you’ve not checked your bag yet, you can put it in there, and it’ll be put in the hold.
The advice from British Airways’ (BA) website is clear. “Please ensure that any items in your hand baggage are fully charged and switched on before you arrive at the airport. If your device is not charged, please place it in your checked baggage.”
They also advise: “If you are connecting, make sure that you do not deplete power in your devices during the first part of your journey as charging points at airports might be very limited and you may need an adapter.”
For London-Heathrow passengers, BA say those with flat batteries may need to rebook on a later flight to give them time to recharge, but that that “a fee might apply”. Alternatively passengers can leave goods at Bagport, the lost property office, and get a reference number for their item. Once at their destination, they can contact Bagport to arrange for the retrieval of their item.
Meanwhile TUI has warned passengers: “If you’re carrying any electronic devices in your hand luggage that are capable of holding a charge, you’ll need to make sure they’re fully charged when you go through airport security. This is part of new security measures that have been introduced by airports in the UK and abroad. We recommend you keep things like mobile phones switched on until you board the plane, as there might be more checks at the departure gate.”
It’s not just a flat battery that could prove an issue. Both easyJet and Jet2 have a list of prohibited items which include damaged batteries – so check your gadgets before you even set off for the airport. Jet2’s website is quite clear: “Damaged Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) and/or spare/loose lithium batteries/cells (including power banks) are forbidden from carriage in all circumstances.”
Ryanair doesn’t provide any additional guidance other than keeping your phone charged. Under the FAQ ‘What happens if my smartphone or tablet dies before airport security?’, it states: “If you have already checked in online and your smartphone or tablet dies, you will receive a free of charge boarding pass at the airport.” However, it is not mentioned what your options would be if security refuses to let you through.
You can find out more about airport security on gov.uk.
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THE new EES travel system came into full effect just days ago – and it is causing travel chaos at airports in Europe.
Over the weekend, huge queues at border control meant some passengers were forced to miss their flights while others waited hours to leave the airport.
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The new EES rules mean there are lengthy queues at passport controlCredit: AlamyLisbon Airport even stopped EES requirement over the weekend to ease queuesCredit: AFP
This weekend, the use of EES biometrics at three Portuguese airports; Lisbon, Porto and Faro, were actually stopped because of excessive passenger wait times.
To ease the queues, EES registration was halted on the morning of April 11 – it later restarted in the afternoon.
Public Security Police spokesperson Sérgio Soares, told press “the collection of biometrics at departures from Humberto Delgado (Lisbon), Francisco Sá Carneiro (Porto) and Gago Coutinho (Faro) Airports was interrupted from the beginning of the operation this morning.
“The interruption continues and is currently being reevaluated. This is to ensure that the waiting time is not longer than what we intend, namely so that people do not miss flights.”
However this was the case at Milan Airport in Italy.
Some passengers were left behind over the weekend as a result of the huge EES registration queues.
The BBC reported that over 100 people were left stranded when an easyJet flight to Manchester left without them.
The delays due to the new EES checks means travellers were waiting in lines over three hours long.
One passenger told the BBC that her having to rebook her flights cost her an extra £520 as a result.
Another stranded passenger who spoke to The Independent said they had booked another flight at the cost of £1,600 – and with a connection through Luxembourg.
An easyJet flight from Milan to Manchester left without over 100 of its passengersCredit: Alamy
easyJet told The Sun: “Due to delays in EES processing by border authorities, some passengers departing from Milan Linate yesterday experienced very long waiting times at passport control.
“We held flight EJU5420 from Milan to Manchester for nearly an hour to give passengers extra time but it had to then depart due to crew reaching their safety regulated operating hours. Customers who missed the flight have been offered a free flight transfer.
“We continue to urge border authorities to ensure they make full and effective use of the permitted flexibilities for as long as needed while EES is implemented, to avoid these unacceptable border delays for our customers.
“While this is outside of our control, we are sorry for any inconvenience caused.”
Meanwhile, at Brussels Airport on the very first day of the EES rollout, the Airports Council International reported that in one instance there weren’t any passengers on a plane when the gate closed.
It said one flight from Brussels to the UK was missing 51 passengers at departure.
And then, “another flight had zero passengers on board at gate closing time, and 90 minutes later, 12 passengers were yet to reach the gate”.
There were concerns raised about the new travel rules prior to the full rollout, with officials asking for EES to be delayed until later in the year.
Ryanair passengers could face an additional £55 fee
Ryanair has changed a rule(Image: SOPA Images, SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
A Ryanair regulation could land passengers with £55 charges, and it’s got nothing to do with oversized luggage. The budget carrier is renowned for its stripped-back approach, with a habit of adding extra charges for items such as baggage and choosing your own seat.
At present, passengers on a basic ticket can only bring one small personal bag as hand luggage without facing additional charges. If this bag exceeds the dimensions, it will need to be placed in the hold – at an extra cost. And while many travellers are familiar with this regulation, there’s another Ryanair policy that could see you stung with extra charges.
If you’re jetting off with Ryanair you’ll be required to check in online. You can then save your boarding pass to a smartphone or tablet. As of November 2025 Ryanair has transitioned to “100% digital boarding passes via its app, eliminating paper passes to reduce costs, improve service, streamline rebooking, and save 300 tonnes of paper annually”.
You can check in online from 60 days ahead of your flight’s scheduled departure if you’ve purchased a seat, or 24 hours beforehand if you’re content to be assigned a complimentary seat. Regardless of seat selection, online check-in shuts two hours before the flight is scheduled to take off.
Following online check-in you’ll obtain your boarding passes, and you’ll be required to save a copy. If you fail to check in online, you’ll face an airport check-in charge of £55 or 55 euros.
To dodge the fee make sure you have a valid boarding pass before you head off to the airport. For those without a smartphone or tablet, Ryanair will print a boarding pass at no cost, provided you have already completed your online check-in prior to arriving at the airport.
Ryanair said it will remind passengers who are booked to fly to check-in online before they are due to depart.
While Brits usually have to join the line with other non-EU citizens, one airport will offer a lane solely for those with British passports after a new system led to huge delays for holidaymakers
Brits will now need to use EES when they enter the EU(Image: Lucy North/PA Wire)
The long-delayed European Entry/Exit System (EES) has officially been implemented today (April 10), which means that all non-EU citizens, Brits included, need to register their biometric data when entering the European Union (EU).
However, during the gradual implementation phase, long queues have been reported at several airports, especially in areas with lots of British tourists such as Spanish holiday hotspots. One spot that has been affected is the holiday island of Majorca, where long queues were reported by Majorca Daily Bulletin over the Easter weekend, a combination of the new systems and airport strikes.
Palma de Mallorca Airport is the third busiest airport in Spain with over 33.3 million passengers a year, even beating major cities on the mainland such as Alicante and Malaga.
The airport has a single terminal, divided into four zones, and while many reviews praise it for its efficiency in handling so many passengers, there have been complaints about long queues and overcrowding. However, it has been confirmed by an airport spokesperson, speaking to the Majorca Daily Bulletin, that dedicated lanes will be set up for British travellers.
The move could help ease pressures at passport control, as first-time registrations can reportedly take several minutes for each passenger. British travellers will be directed to a specific area with kiosks to collect their biometric data, and additional staff from the Guardia Civil will be on-hand to help manage the process.
The new EES system involves taking a photograph and fingerprints from non-EU citizens, and its aim is to be able to easily track those who overstay. Eventually, it will replace manual passport stamps, allowing EU countries to identify whether someone has followed the 90-day rule.
So far, the system has reportedly caught out over 4,000 travellers who’ve either accidentally or deliberately overstayed. Brits visiting the EU are allowed to stay up to 90 days visa-free within an 180-day period, although many don’t realise this is a rolling window, which could lead to confusion when calculating how long someone has been in the EU.
Brits visiting Portugal or Sweden can download the official Travel to Europe app to save time. This app allows them to scan their passports and capture their biometric data in advance before generating a QR code. If no further checks are needed at the airport, then visitors can then simply scan the code at the EES kiosk on arrival.
Later this year, Brits will also need to participate in the new visa-waiver scheme, the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System), which is set to be implemented in late-2026.
Not to be confused with EES, ETIAS will require Brits visiting the EU to apply for a visa-exemption, with the application costing €20 (about £17.42), although it will be valid for three years.
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HomeFeaturesQ&A: How Lebanon’s Aviation Chief Keeps Beirut Airport Open Amid Iran War Chaos
With most carriers suspending operations, Aziz, a former Middle East Airlines’ advisor, discusses how the Beirut airport keeps operating despite Israel’s strikes on Lebanon.
Since the start of the US-Israeli war on Iran in late February, air traffic across the Middle East has been severely disrupted. Large portions of regional airspace are either closed or avoided, forcing airlines to reroute flights and cancel services.
In Lebanon, the situation is even more extreme: Israel strikes Beirut and its southern suburbs almost daily, just minutes from the country’s only international airport. With most carriers suspending operations, Middle East Airlines (MEA) remains the only one flying, maintaining a fragile lifeline with the rest of the world.
Global Finance sits down with Captain Mohammed Aziz, head of Lebanon’s Civil Aviation Authority and former senior advisor to MEA’s CEO, to discuss how the Beirut airport continues to operate under fire and what this means for the airline’s business.
Mohammed Aziz, Lebanon, Civil Aviation Authority
Global Finance: How is the airport operating these days?
Aziz: Considering what’s going on around us, the airport is operating in a very nice way. For example, on April 1st, there was a hit near the airport road. The security forces closed the road for half an hour, the time for the bombing to happen and for it to be cleaned. They then resumed operations. But the airport didn’t stop at all during this period. We are ensuring that the airport remains open safely and securely despite the situation.
GF: How do you know when a strike is going to happen and when planes can go in or out?
Aziz: First, most of the time, [Israeli authorities] announce where they want to bomb, especially if it’s around Beirut. Second, we can see on the radar if there are planes coming in for bombardment. They also know when a civilian aircraft is coming in, and they try to avoid it. Only once or twice did they come during a civilian operation. We had to hold the aircraft in the air until they finished their job before landing.
GF: Who are the airlines flying in and out?
Aziz: MEA is flying on all its routes, except to destinations where the airports are closed, like Kuwait, Doha or Abu Dhabi. They are losing about 40% of their traffic because many Gulf airports are closed. Gulf carriers are not coming to Beirut anymore because either their airport is not operating, or, when it is, they have other priorities. European carriers stopped serving the whole region from day one.
GF: What are the MEA’s operations?
Aziz: MEA now has 22 planes; five or six are parked continuously abroad, so they don’t get exposed if anything happens. That means they are practically operating with 16 aircraft. But even these 16 planes are not at full capacity. For example, some airports that used to take Airbus A330s now receive A321s. They have to maintain a balance in order to minimize their losses and insurance exposure.
GF: Why is the MEA the only airline flying?
Aziz: Well, because it’s a Lebanese carrier. For MEA to stay alive, they have to fly. They also consider it a duty to maintain the link between Lebanon and the outside world. This has always been MEA policy. They only stop when the risk assessment tells them not to fly. This occurred a lot during the civil war (1975-1990) and more recently during the 2006 war. But for the time being, MEA is still flying.
GF: How does flying from and to Beirut still make sense business-wise for the MEA?
Aziz: To be able to fly in such a situation, you need a daily risk assessment conducted at the highest level, with the highest contacts. The head of civil aviation, the chairman of MEA and the head of the security forces have to be in direct contact with the government 24/7. The government is in contact with embassies and foreign ministries. So if anything changes, we can know immediately and take the right decision. Every day we have a coordination meeting. If anything changes, we know about it, but this is time-consuming. Now, if Lebanon is 100% of your operations, you do it because the only alternative is to stop. But for foreign airlines, Beirut is just one of thousands of flights, so they say, “OK, forget about it, when the situation gets better, we will return.”
GF: How does insurance cost evolve in a situation like this?
Aziz: Insurers look at many aspects: the risk management done by the company, by the authorities, their own information, and they adjust their policy accordingly. Sometimes they give higher premiums, sometimes they lower the ceiling, sometimes they say you can continue as you are. And it changes constantly. Today might be one thing, tomorrow another, so we have to keep in touch with them.
GF: During a war situation, are there other extra costs?
Aziz: Sure. We have to pay employees extra to encourage them to come in and thank them for being here under the circumstances. If they feel they don’t want to come, they still get their salary. We also have special sleeping facilities for the staff to stay close to the airport. Then there are fuel costs. The ton used to be $700; it’s now $1,500. That’s over a 100% increase. And finally, some routes are now longer. For instance, Beirut to Dubai previously took three hours. Now, it’s about five because planes have to go from Dubai to Oman to Saudi Arabia to Egypt to Cyprus to Beirut instead of coming straight. In addition to the extra fuel costs, the longer flight time means more aircraft maintenance and more staff hours. It’s these incremental cost that keep on adding up.
GF: How can a company like MEA compensate for this extra cost?
Aziz: They cannot compensate 100%, but they can offset some of the cost with yield management. If you have many empty seats, you lower the price of the ticket; when the plane gets full, you raise it. It doesn’t recover all the extra costs, but the only alternative would be to stop flying. Even if they suffer some temporary losses, the MEA considers that people will appreciate that they kept flying, and when things return to normal, they will remain loyal customers. We are confident that the future will be bright. This is why we are working day and night to ensure that the airport remains open and that people’s confidence in the airline and the country remains the same, so that whenever things settle down, they know they have a good airport that never lets them down.
GF: Do you see opportunities in this time?
Aziz: Yes, we are using the current situation as an opportunity to accelerate the improvements to the departure and arrival areas we had started last year. Normally, it should take a year. However, the density of travelers is now 20-25% of what it normally is. I think we can finish it in two to three months.
Rules around travel to Europe are changing – make sure you’re prepared by following a travel expert’s tips.
Arrive early and have documents ready to avoid queues, especially if you’re travelling with a big family(Image: Getty)
Nobody wants to face those dreaded airport queues; there’s nothing to ruin the start of a holiday than being stuck in a long queue, stressing about whether you’ll make your flight, surrounded by equally frustrated travellers.
From April 10, new biometric checks will become mandatory for all non-EU travellers entering the Schengen Area which will include Brits. Traditional passport stamping is now replaced by fingerprint scans and facial recognition. While it is meant to be a quick process, major international hubs are already reporting long queues of up to four hours for the service, especially at airports that host multiple airlines.
With that in mind, Jane Bolton, a travel expert at Erna Low, has shared four simple but essential tips to help passengers avoid unnecessary delays and start their trip without delays.
Arrive earlier than you think you need to
“Airport wait times can vary, but with the new EES checks, queues of up to four hours are expected at peak times,” Jane explains. “In the past, travellers were advised to arrive two hours before a domestic flight and three hours for an international flight. Now, it’s worth allowing more time than usual.”
To be extra prepared, Jane would recommend arriving three to four hours before the flight to account for additional biometric checks slowing down border processing – especially if you’re flying during busier holiday periods.
Consider fast-track options where possible
But spending so much time in airports isn’t exactly everyone’s idea of fun. In that case, fast-track security could be worth the investment. “As long queues are expected, passengers should opt for alternative time-saving methods where possible,” Jane says. “Purchasing fast-track tickets for security is a great method for reducing the time needed prior to a flight.” Typically costing between £3 and £12, these passes can help you bypass long security lines, a price she says is “a relatively small investment for peace of mind.”
Plan carefully if you’re travelling with family
Under the new system, families might even face additional challenges – children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting and facial recognition, but they must be linked to a registered adult. “For families or large parties travelling, allowing extra time at the airport is essential,” Jane explains. “This process will take longer than average, so plan ahead and keep all documents ready.”
Double-check your passport before you go
Since Brexit, Jane says, one of the most common mistakes travellers make is assuming their passport is valid everywhere, at any point. “Your passport must have been issued less than 10 years before your travel date and be valid for at least three months after departure,” Jane says. She stresses that, while most would know their passport is expired, some wouldn’t think to check one thing that also matters: the issue date. She explains: “For example, a passport issued in March 2015 and expiring in December 2025 won’t be valid for EU travel after March 2025.” Failing to check this could mean being turned away at the airport before your trip even begins.
Major strikes across Italy are set to disrupt airports and other transport routes, potentially affecting large numbers of UK travellers
Robert Rowlands Deputy editor, money and lifestyle, content hub and Maria Ortega
17:52, 08 Apr 2026Updated 17:53, 08 Apr 2026
Naples International Airport is one of the locations set to be affected by disruption(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)
A series of strikes is planned throughout April in Italy that could cause significant disruption for British holidaymakers. According to official figures from the Ministry of Transport, the month will see 14 strikes spread across six days. The nation gets around five million visits from UK travellers every year, according to official data.
The aviation sector will be affected in April with three major tourist cities facing action, and there will also be a series of strikes over public transport. The first strike date will be on Thursday, April 10, according to Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera. Air traffic control, ground staff and flight attendants are set to strike on that date.
Il Gazzettino reports that eight strikes will hit the aviation sector simultaneously that day. The walkouts – almost all lasting four hours (1pm to 5pm) and taking place nationwide – are set to involve key locations such as the area control centres in Rome and Milan and major airports including Naples, Malpensa in Milan and Rome Fiumicino.
Travellers are being warned that delays and cancellations could occur. People are being urged to monitor travel information before travelling.
Italian media reports say the action on April 10 could have potential knock-on effects on flights and routes throughout Italy. Other strikes then follow later in the month.
Reports say that between April 13 and 24, there will be a further five strikes in local public transport, all regional or company-specific. The cities affected span a wide geographical area: from Naples (Eav) to Florence (Gest), from Vasto to Milan, where the ATM group will cease operations for eight hours on April 24.
There will also be a strike in the rail sector on April 13, according to local media reports. It is set to affect on-board catering services rather than train operations, and a maritime walkout (April 17) in the Strait of Messina, with an eight-hour stoppage by BluJet staff.
On April 19, Gest tram staff in Florence will strike for four hours from 1pm to 5pm, while on April 20, public transport in Chieti will be disrupted from 9am to 1pm. A public transport strike will also take place in Lombardy on April 24 in Milan when drivers and train operators strike from 8.45am to 3pm.
Elsewhere, from April 14 to 18, freight transport in Sicily is expected to grind to a halt, with protests likely to impact logistics and product distribution across the island. On April 16, press workers will strike in protest at the failure to renew the national contract, while the following day, April 17, doctors and healthcare workers will also walk out. Unions are condemning the failure to renew their contracts.
Airport strikes on April 10 in Italy
Italian broadcaster Espansione TV reports April 10 in particular promises to be a challenging day for those planning to travel by air. The nationwide strike in the sector is expected to affect several of Italy’s most significant airports. Delays, cancellations, and potential operational disruptions cannot be ruled out during the protest period. Passengers are urged to monitor their flight status in real time via the airlines’ official websites.
A 24-hour national strike by railway infrastructure maintenance personnel is also scheduled for Saturday, April 11. The protest could affect the smooth running of services, particularly in the handling of breakdowns and technical interventions, the broadcaster reports.
The broadcaster says that April 24 is also set to be a challenging day for public transport users across Lombardy. The Confial-Trasporti union has announced a fresh strike, which will hit services running in the Milan, Como, and Monza areas particularly hard, with the ATM Group bearing the brunt of the action.
The walkout will run for 8 hours, it is reported. In Milan, tram, metro, and bus services face disruption between 8.45 am and 3pm, while in Monza, passengers may experience interruptions from 2.50 pm through to the end of service.
The Como-Brunate funicular, run by ATM, is also facing potential disruption from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm.
A SMALL UK airport will close in a matter of weeks with its final flights scheduled for May.
Coventry Airport first opened in 1936 and even took holidaymakers abroad for a number of years – but will close permanently in 2026.
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Coventry Airport will close in two months after operating for 90 yearsCredit: AlamyFor four years Thomsonfly flew Brits to Europe from Coventry AirportCredit: Alamy Stock Photo
It was announced in early December 2025 that Coventry would close its airport on June 11, 2026.
The last flights from are set to depart on May 9, 2026.
The site won’t stay vacant though as it will be replaced by Greenpower Park which first received planning permission in 2022.
It will be a £2.5billion battery gigafactory designed for electric vehicle production.
Later, in the 1950s and 60s, the airport began passenger flights across to the Channel Islands.
Then in the 1980s, Hards Travel began operating flights to Spain, France, Italy and Austria as part of package holidays.
Later on in 2004, Thomsonfly operated jet passenger flights to the likes of Palma, Valencia, Rome, Nice, Marseilles, Naples, Pisa, Venice, and Jersey.
During this time Wizz Air flew passengers to Gdańsk and Katowice.
However, after just four years, these stopped.
Following financial issues, the airport closed briefly in 2009, then re-opened in 2010 after being bought by the Rigby Group.
From 2010, the airport focussed on freight flights, training and even a base for the Air Ambulance rather than scheduled passenger services.
But after 90 years, Coventry Airport will close its doors in less than two months.
Last year, a UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) spokesperson confirmed: “Coventry Aerodrome has given formal notice to us of its plan to close the airport permanently with effect from 11 June 2026.”