EU Security Checks Causing Huge Airport Delays

The government has been urged to pressure EU states to adequately staff their airports as British travellers face long delays due to increased security checks.

New rules have been introduced following terror attacks in Paris and Brussels. Travellers' details now have to be run through databases, whenever they enter or leave the Schengen area, to see if they pose a security threat.

This week, passengers have been queuing for up to four hours, with some EU states criticised for not bringing in extra staff.

Airlines UK, an industry body representing UK-registered carriers, said it had warned the Department for Transport about the problem in May, although they were told by ministers that the problem had eased.

Tim Alderslade, the body's chief executive, said:

"It is now up to the UK Government to work with industry to use whatever influence it can within the EU to persuade Schengen member states to resource their border operations properly."

Airlines for Europe, which represents carriers including easyJet, Ryanair and British Airways' parent company IAG, claimed some passengers had missed flights due to the delays.

If your flight was delayed and your airline was at fault, you may be eligible for compensation. Call our Wigan team on 01942 366 388 to find out if you have a claim.

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