While the goal is to increase the security of the UK’s borders, experts say the new system will turn travelers away from the region’s largest airport.
The UK government recently shared details of its new visa-free entry system known as Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which will debut later this year. The system, designed to increase border security, will be linked to passengers’ passports.
With the authorization method less than six months away from becoming a reality for travelers, there seem to be concerns about how it may affect costs and the ability to travel without any setbacks. Some industry experts allegedly predict the system could even trigger a slump in airline customers.
Imposed this year
The ETA is similar to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) in the US, an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors under the country’s Visa Waiver Program through an electronic passport. An approved ESTA only allows a person to travel to a US port of entry and request permission to enter the country.
According to The Independent, the UK government claimed that ETAs will be required by the end of 2024 for travelers worldwide who do not need a visa for short stays. The system will be implemented on November 15th of this year, but the government will only require people traveling from Qatar to obtain an ETA. Thereafter, the requirement will extend to other Arab states of the Gulf region, including Jordan, before it will be rolled out globally by the end of next year.
How it works
Travelers must apply for the ETA online and provide several details to ensure the government has the correct information. A decision on the approval of the application is then expected within a few days. Before the traveler departs to the UK, airlines will verify their status. Once they arrive, the UK Border Force will also check the ETA, but similar to the ESTA, the permit does not guarantee a traveler’s entry into the UK, according to the government.
Robert Jenrick, UK Minister for Immigration, said the ETAs will improve the security of inbound passengers, according to The Independent.
“ETAs will enhance our border security by increasing our knowledge about those seeking to come to the UK and preventing the arrival of those who pose a threat. It will also improve travel for legitimate visitors.”
Making it difficult to travel?
The system is not expected to directly impact British travelers, but there is a possibility that regulations connected to the ETA could put UK airlines and tourism to Northern Ireland at a disadvantage. According to The Independent, the requirement could cost Northern Ireland 25% of its international visitors, whereas Heathrow Airport in London has reportedly appealed against “any competitive” disadvantages.
Travel experts expect that ETAs will harm UK’s biggest airport and contribute to a decline in passengers for British Airways (BA) and Virgin Atlantic. This reasoning is because one-third of the travelers that pass through Heathrow are connecting to other flights, specifically long-haul flights.
With the new system, all travelers, except those from Great Britain and Ireland, will be required to obtain an ETA, regardless of whether they are changing from one plane to another at the same terminal or connecting to a flight at a different terminal.
Paul Charles, former Virgin Atlantic Communications Director and head of the PC Agency, told The Independent that the system will persuade travelers to choose a different airport to connect through.
“BA and Virgin Atlantic rely on transit passengers to fill their long-haul flights, make a profit and employ more people. Taxing transit will turn away tens of thousands of people who will find an easier hub.”
The government, however, said that one of its top priorities has been to strengthen the UK’s borders. Officials seem to remain confident that the ETA will enhance border security and prevent the arrival of dangerous travelers.
Source: Simple Flying
