Airports Get Slower at European Border Checks
Listen
Vocabulary
Article
Europe has a new system for checking passports at airports. This system is taking much longer than before. People have to wait three times longer now. Airport workers say this is a big problem.
What Is Happening?
The new system checks passengers in a different way. Workers must look at each passport more carefully. They ask more questions to travelers. This takes much more time than the old system.
Problems for Travelers
Many people are waiting for hours at the airport. Lines are very long. Some travelers miss their flights. Families with children have a hard time waiting.
Airlines Are Worried
Ryanair is a big airline in Europe. The company tells passengers to come to the airport very early. They say wait times will be long this summer. Other airlines have the same problem.
What Should You Do?
If you fly to Europe this summer, plan for extra time. Arrive at the airport three hours early. Bring water and snacks for waiting. Be patient and calm with other travelers.
Discussion Questions
- Have you ever waited a long time at an airport? What did you do while you waited?
- Do you think airports should hire more workers to check passports faster?
- How early do you usually arrive at the airport before a flight?
- If you traveled to Europe this summer, how would this problem affect your plans?
- What can travelers do to make waiting easier and less stressful?
Open the full interactive lesson with tap-to-hear on every word →