Major European airport issues 'arrive early' alert for all passengers amid delays

Major European airport issues 'arrive early' alert for all passengers amid delaysPassengers have been warned of "possible constraints"CommentsTravelCharlotte Smith Senior Lifestyle Content Editor12:10, 16 Apr 2026Updated 12:11, 16 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesThe airport has shared an alert online(Image: Getty)A popular European airport, one of the busiest for British passengers, is urging travellers to "arrive early" in a new alert. It comes as the airport warns that "possible constraints" could lead to long queues and waiting times.‌Faro Airport, located in Portugal, serves as the main gateway to the Algarve holiday region. It has previously ranked among the top airports for British arrivals, with millions passing through every year. It is one of the busiest European airports for UK visitors, alongside Alicante and Tenerife South.‌As of April 16, a statement on the official Faro Airport website reads: "Due to possible constraints on departures border control, longer waiting times are to be expected. Passengers to international (Non Schengen) flights please arrive early at the Airport."‌In a separate post on Facebook, the airport also said: "Due to possible border control constraints, we recommend that passengers on international flights (extra EU) arrive at the airport in greater advance. Plan your trip well and avoid unforeseen things."It adds: "Due to possible constraints at departure border control, we recommend that passengers on international flights (extra EU) arrive at the airport earlier than usual."‌The European Union's new Entry/Exit System (EES) launched April 10 and has meant passengers have had to face lengthy queues at passport control across Europe. The new system replaces manual passport stamping and instead uses biometric and facial recognition checks.The system keeps track of how long travellers stay to ensure they don't exceed the 90-day limit in 180 days. After passengers p...