Easter Travel Chaos: 2-Hour EU Border Queues Expected

As the Easter 2026 travel period commences, passengers heading to Europe should anticipate border queues exceeding two hours. This is primarily due to ongoing challenges with the EU's entry-exit system (EES). Aviation leaders have requested a suspension of the EES's full rollout, citing operational difficulties and current queues that regularly reach two hours at peak times.

In the UK, severe weather from Storm Dave is predicted for northern areas, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall. Commuters will also contend with widespread railway engineering works, including a six-day closure of a major line between London Euston and Milton Keynes. Road travel is expected to be busiest on Thursday and Friday, with heavy traffic anticipated on Easter Monday as well.

Further complicating travel, strikes are underway at several major Spanish airports. Airlines and airports are urging the European Commission to allow continued flexibility in the EES implementation throughout the summer season to prevent major disruptions. Despite assurances from the Commission regarding the system's efficiency, some member states are experiencing technical issues.

Ferry and Eurotunnel services are also preparing for peak traffic, particularly from Dover and Folkestone. While fears of EES-related hold-ups at these Kent gateways have subsided, passengers are advised to arrive with adequate time before their departures and to be prepared for potential delays across all modes of transport.