Travelers landing in the UK are facing delays due to the implementation of the European Entry/Exit System (EES) across EU countries. Although Greece has exempted British visitors from using the system during the busy summer season, other EU nations may not follow suit.
Upon my recent arrival at Barcelona’s El Prat Airport, I encountered the EES for the first time. Despite being pre-registered in the system, I still had to pass through a queue for non-EU passport holders, navigating through barriers and EES machines. The process involved scanning my passport to confirm registration and proceeding through the e-gates to exit the airport.
While some travelers breezed through the system, others required assistance, reminiscent of self-checkout experiences. My total time from passport control to stepping out into Spanish sunshine was just under 25 minutes, showcasing the efficiency of the airport staff in managing the influx of passengers.
Despite potential delays during peak travel seasons, Barcelona Airport’s effective handling of crowds ensures a relatively smooth process for incoming travelers. With millions passing through annually, the airport’s operations prioritize efficiency, making the overall experience manageable for visitors.