Holidaymakers faced hours-long queues at the Port of Dover on Friday and Saturday, as a hot bank holiday weekend triggered travel chaos. In a bid to ease congestion, French authorities suspended extra EU border checks under the new entry/exit system (EES), the port confirmed.
Anyone who missed their ferry due to queues can travel on the next available slot free of charge.
What Are EES Checks?
EES requires travelers from third-party countries, such as the United Kingdom, to have their fingerprints registered and a photograph taken before entering the Schengen Area. The system covers 29 European countries, primarily within the EU.
More than 8,000 travelers were expected at Dover on Saturday alone.
Heat Adds to the Pressure
The chaos unfolded as the UK braced for what could be a record-breaking May bank holiday weekend. The Met Office warned that temperatures could break records for:
- The hottest May day in the UK (currently 32.8°C)
- The hottest May day in England (32.8°C)
- The hottest May day in Wales (30.6°C)
- The hottest UK bank holiday ever (33.3°C)
Highs of 30°C were forecast for Saturday, with peaks of 31°C expected on Sunday. These temperatures exceed those forecast for Athens, Greece, or Victoria, Seychelles.
Health Alerts Issued
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued amber heat health alerts for the East Midlands, West Midlands, east of England, London, and the South East. These will remain in place until 5pm on Wednesday. Less severe yellow alerts were in place for the rest of England.
The amber alerts warn of “a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions” and increased demand on health and social care services.
Travelers Left in Limbo
With queues stretching for hours, many holidaymakers expressed frustration. The Port of Dover advised travelers to check with their ferry operator for updates and to plan for extra time.
What This Means for Future Travel
This suspension highlights the practical challenges of implementing new border technologies, especially during peak travel periods. While the EES aims to enhance security within the Schengen Area, its rollout has faced criticism for causing delays.
For now, travelers heading to France should expect potential disruptions as the system is gradually adjusted.