Boasting some of the world's most famous cathedrals, the United Kingdom is a sojourn for Easter travelers. Gridlock is expected at airports throughout the nation due to increased traffic and reduced staff available to expedite check-in and security lines. Eleven major airlines based in the United Kingdom have sent letters to the Home Secretary, Theresa May, expressing their apprehension about travel chaos over Easter weekend.
Virgin Atlantic and British Airways were among the airlines that sent letters to May, stating that because the UK has instigated a passport checking policy that would require every traveler flying internationally or domestically to have proper documentation. Additionally, staffing cuts were recently made in numerous UK airports, adding to the delays.
"If arriving passengers are unable to proceed efficiently through the UK border, then the entire airport operation would be at risk," said Virgin Atlantic committee members in their letter to May. "Passengers arriving late from passport control to collect their luggage will cause congestion in the baggage hall, delaying delivery of luggage from later flights."
A spokesman for the UK Border Force reassured travelers that the extra security measures have been implemented for their safety, stating that there is no concrete evidence there will be delays this weekend.
