UK Warns: Delays at Passport Control for Passengers Flying to and From Copenhagen Airport

The UK government has issued updated travel advice for passengers flying between the United Kingdom and Copenhagen Airport, warning of possible delays at passport control following the rollout of the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES). The system has already been heavily criticized for causing excruciatingly long waiting times of several hours, delayed takeoffs, and missed flights.

Copenhagen Airport. Photo: Alexanderstock23 / Shutterstock.com

In a notice published by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), officials said travelers may experience longer waiting times when arriving at or departing from Copenhagen Airport on flights to or from non-Schengen countries, including the UK.

“Following the introduction of EES, you may experience delays at passport control when arriving at or departing from Copenhagen Airport on flights to or from non-Schengen countries, including the UK,” the FCDO stated.

Passengers are being advised to allow extra time when traveling through the airport, especially those with short onward connections.

Eurotunnel. Photo: Andy Soloman / Shutterstock.com

Passengers entering the Schengen area using the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone or Eurostar at St Pancras International will have their information collected at the border before they leave the UK. 

The new EES system is being implemented across the Schengen area and replaces manual passport stamping for short-stay visitors. Under the system, some travelers may need to register biometric details such as fingerprints and a facial photo during their first entry into the Schengen zone.

The FCDO also reminded travelers that Denmark follows Schengen passport validity rules. British passports must have been issued less than 10 years before arrival and remain valid for at least three months after the planned departure date from the Schengen area.

Officials added that passengers needing assistance, including families traveling with young children or people with accessibility requirements, should speak to airport staff wearing yellow vests who are managing queues at the airport.

European aviation organizations have demanded immediate flexibility in the operation of the new EES system, which has entered full operation on the continent.