ABTA Warns Travelers as ETIAS Launch Date Remains Unset

ABTA warned UK travelers on October 13, 2026, in Madeira that the ETIAS travel authorization system has no confirmed launch date, while European border checks remain subject to temporary suspensions at busy crossings due to operational concerns.

ABTA Director of Public Affairs Luke Petherbridge said the association’s research found fewer than half of British travelers who visited Europe had experienced EES checks since the phased rollout began a year earlier.

According to ABTA, most affected travelers reported limited disruption, with half passing through borders in under 30 minutes and 87% waiting less than one hour. The association said some countries remain concerned about the system’s ability to handle demand.

"We need to see a continued pragmatic approach," said Luke Petherbridge, Director of Public Affairs.

ABTA said European Commission rules allow checks to be suspended at specific border points when queues become significant. Petherbridge said the organization wants contingency measures extended into 2027 if needed.

ABTA also raised concerns about missing EES departure records. The association said some travelers may appear to have overstayed when arrival records are recorded but exit checks are missed during suspended operations.

"What we are hearing is that Border Guards will correct this the next time you go through," said Luke Petherbridge, Director of Public Affairs.

Travelers can request corrections from relevant national border authorities, according to ABTA. The association said Holiday Habits research involving more than 2,000 respondents found 6% of people were less likely to visit the European Union because of the checks.

The planned ETIAS rollout for UK citizens and other visa-exempt non-EU nationals has been removed from official EU websites. ABTA said more than 150 websites are already offering applications despite the official system not being open.

"There is now no official launch date for ETIAS," said Luke Petherbridge, Director of Public Affairs.

ETIAS will apply to travelers from countries including the United Kingdom, United States, Australia and Canada after launch. According to ABTA, the system should only be introduced once the EES border system is fully operational.