Increased vigilance at airport border controls is leading to long lines and delays for British travelers headed to Europe this summer, authorities warn. The delays are caused by electronic database checks of UK passports, which previously just got a visual check by officers.
The UK, although still a member of the EU, does not belong to the Schengen agreement, which removes all borders among its members; most members of the EU, as well as Norway, Iceland and Switzerland are members.
Airlines and passengers have already reported queues that can stretch out to hundreds of meters at some airports, including Madrid, Palma, Lisbon, Milan, Brussels and Paris Orly. The airlines say the countries involved have not allotted enough additional personnel to handle the burden. In some instances, passengers have missed flights while waiting in line.
While the delays are particularly felt by British travelers who have had expedited treatment in the past, the new checks apply to all non-Schengen travelers, including Americans.
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