Corfu Airport Braces for Significant Delays as New EU Directive Tightens Non-Schengen Controls
Corfu, March 20 – Corfu’s “Ioannis Kapodistrias” Airport is facing potential significant delays for passengers arriving from non-Schengen countries, as a new European directive on intensified passport controls comes into effect this year. Currently, it takes over 40 minutes to complete passport checks for non-Schengen passengers, with approximately 2 minutes required per passenger. This new directive is expected to exacerbate these delays, causing concern among local authorities and tourism bodies.
A critical meeting was held yesterday morning at the Ionian Islands Regional Unit headquarters, attended by the Regional Governor, representatives from Fraport, and key tourism stakeholders. The purpose of the meeting was to address the anticipated challenges and formulate a response to mitigate the impact on the island’s vital tourism sector.
Regional Governor Emphasizes Urgent Need for Solutions
Regional Governor Mr. Trepekli, in a statement, highlighted the gravity of the situation: “The implementation of the new passport control system is a European obligation. However, for the Ionian Islands, it constitutes a critical stress test for our infrastructure and services. We cannot allow the first impression of our visitors to be one of delays and inconvenience. This will directly harm the competitiveness of our destination and leave a negative imprint on international markets.”
Mr. Trepekli stressed the need for a coordinated intervention at the state level, calling for an increase in police forces and an optimization of control procedures to meet the actual demands of the upcoming tourist season. He confirmed that he is already in direct communication with the Minister of Citizen Protection, Michalis Chrysochoidis, who has committed to reinforcing police forces at the airports of the Ionian Islands.
Furthermore, the Regional Governor has extended an official invitation to the Minister of Tourism, Olga Kefalogianni, to visit the headquarters of the Ionian Islands Region in Corfu and convene a broad working meeting with all relevant stakeholders.
Fraport Proposes Infrastructure Enhancements, Tour Operators Remain Skeptical
Fraport, the airport’s managing company, indicated that it plans to take initiatives to alleviate the problem. One such proposal includes the expansion of the existing building with awnings, thereby creating a new area to accommodate passengers from non-Schengen flights.
However, this proposal has been met with skepticism from the president of the travel agents’ association. According to the association’s president, this solution may not be sufficient, as during the peak summer season, with dozens of flights arriving, passengers could still face prolonged waits inside their aircraft.
Wider Implications for Corfu’s Tourism Industry
The potential for increased delays poses a significant threat to Corfu’s tourism industry, which relies heavily on international visitors. The island’s reputation as a welcoming and efficient destination could be undermined if passengers experience prolonged waits and discomfort upon arrival. The tourism sector is a cornerstone of the local economy, and any negative impact could have far-reaching consequences for businesses and employment.
The current situation highlights the delicate balance between security requirements and the need for efficient tourist services. While the new EU directive aims to enhance security, its implementation must be carefully managed to avoid inadvertently harming the very industries it is designed to protect in border regions such as Corfu.
Local authorities and tourism bodies are now working to find practical solutions that will ensure both compliance with European regulations and a smooth, enjoyable experience for all visitors to Corfu. The outcome of these discussions and the effectiveness of the proposed measures will be crucial for the island’s upcoming tourist season.
Source: https://www.ertnews.gr/perifereiakoi-stathmoi/kerkyra/kerkyra-kathysteriseis-stis-ptiseis-ektos-segken-fernei-i-nea-eyropaiki-odigia/?amp
