New rules on provision of passenger info

The European Union has issued a new directive for all member states concerning the provision of advance passenger information (API) on departing flights. As Spain began implementation of the new directive, fears surfaced in passengers and airport officials about the lengthy delays in airports especially as the summer travel season begins.

Contrary to belief, the new directive does not require each passenger to fill out forms. Instead details already entered into the airline’s computer system will be matched with passport details for each departing flights. This information will be available when a passport is swiped through the scanner. Unfortunately, many airports don’t have enough of the scanners to handle a complete implementation of the new directive without causing long line ups.

UK passengers flying through or to Spain will be required to provide their full name, nationality, passport number and date of birth before the flight, either by email or through the travel agent.  Check in counters not equipped with a scanner will have to type in these details at the counter, which should only take around 30 seconds.

An EasyJet representative explained the process: “Scheduled airlines won’t have a problem. We will email everyone two weeks in advance asking them to supply the information and check-in as normal. We will send reminders and, if details are outstanding, we will phone.”

British Airways is seeking to reassure its passengers that only a small number of its flights are affected and urges them not to worry. Meanwhile, Spanish carrier Iberia has been complying with the directive since March and has not experienced significant delays.

www.easyjet.com