New Rules for Red Passport Holders

Since the Brexit transition, UK citizens are now classified as “third-country nationals” by the European Union. This classification brings several new passport validity rules into play, affecting entry into EU and Schengen Area countries. Passports must be less than 10 years old on the date of arrival in the EU and have at least three months remaining before expiry at the end of the trip. This rule applies not only to EU countries but also to Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland​.

Common Travel Disruptions

Daily, approximately 200 UK travellers are denied boarding due to non-compliance with these rules. Issues typically arise at check-in or at the departure gate, causing significant travel disruptions. Travelers like Nathan Barnes, who was recently barred from flying to France despite having a valid boarding pass, illustrate the importance of these new rules​.

Validity Requirements by Country

The rules are not uniform across all destinations. While the EU and Schengen Area enforce the 10-year issue date and three-month validity rule, other countries have different requirements:

• Six-Month Validity Rule: 70 countries, including popular destinations such as Thailand and the United Arab Emirates, require passports to be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival.
• Three-Month Validity Rule: 41 countries, including Finland, New Zealand, and Switzerland, require passports to have at least three months remaining on the date of entry​​.

What You Should Do

Before traveling, it’s crucial for UK passport holders to verify the validity of their passports. The UK Passport Office recommends checking the expiry date and ensuring compliance with the specific entry requirements of the destination country. For those with passports issued before October 2018, extra months added during renewal could affect the validity calculations​

By staying informed and proactive, UK travellers can avoid unexpected disruptions and enjoy a smooth summer holiday season. Make sure your passport meets all the necessary requirements before you pack your bags..

Starting in summer 2025, the airline will operate flights to popular holiday destinations across Europe, the Canary Islands, and the Mediterranean. This expansion includes a variety of new routes aimed at offering greater convenience and more choices to travelers from the South Coast of England.

Jet2 New Routes Boost Travel Options

The new routes from Bournemouth Airport will connect travelers to diverse destinations, including Spain, Greece, Turkey, and Italy. This expansion is part of Jet2’s broader strategy to increase its footprint in the UK and meet growing demand for summer travel.

The introduction of these routes is expected to cater to both holidaymakers seeking sunny escapes and business travelers. With over 16 million seats available for summer 2025, Jet2 is poised to become a leading choice for those flying from Bournemouth.

Early Summer Seats and Extended Seasons

In addition to the new routes, Jet2 has added 10,000 early summer seats across five UK airports, responding to the high demand for early holiday bookings. Moreover, the airline has extended its season for popular destinations such as Crete and Rhodes, allowing travelers to enjoy these locations well into November 2024.

This move not only provides more travel flexibility but also helps to support local economies in these destinations by extending the tourist season. Jet2’s proactive approach in expanding seat availability and extending seasons underscores their commitment to customer satisfaction and market responsiveness.

Significant Expansion and Future Plans

The expansion at Bournemouth Airport is a critical component of Jet2’s long-term strategy. With Bournemouth becoming the 12th base, the airline continues to strengthen its presence across the UK. This growth aligns with their vision to provide comprehensive travel options and exceptional service to a broader audience.

Jet2’s dedication to expanding its route network and enhancing travel experiences ensures that passengers have access to a wide range of destinations, making it easier than ever to plan their perfect holiday.