Low-cost airline Wizz Air has been advising passengers to arrive at least 2 hours before their flights to avoid EU entry-exit airport chaos. However, a closer look at airport check-in procedures reveals that this may not be enough to guarantee a smooth experience for passengers.
According to the UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), check-in desks at many EU airports may not open until 2 hours before a flight's departure time. This means that passengers who arrive at the recommended 2 hours before their flight may still find themselves waiting in long queues for a significant amount of time.
The FCO has highlighted the issue in its travel advice for several EU countries, including France, Germany, and Spain. The organisation advises passengers to 'check with their airline for the recommended arrival time' and to be prepared for potential delays.
For British travellers, this means that arriving early may not be enough to avoid the chaos. Passengers are advised to check with their airline for the recommended arrival time and to factor in extra time for potential delays.
In terms of costs, Wizz Air's policy of advising passengers to arrive 2 hours before flights may not be the most cost-effective solution. Passengers who are forced to wait in long queues for extended periods may incur additional costs for food, drinks, and other amenities.