The issue of delays at passport control continues to plague airports in the Canary Islands, affecting both incoming and departing passengers. The problem has been particularly evident at César Manrique Airport and Tenerife South Airport, where long lines are disrupting operations.
According to José Juan Lorenzo the director of Promotur, automated passport control machines, already in use in many other countries, could be the key to resolving these delays. “The machines are physically present in the terminals but remain non-operational, despite months of installation,” Lorenzo said.
Having recently experienced the delays himself after returning from the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, Lorenzo described his frustration with lengthy queues upon arrival at Lanzarote. He highlighted how London has successfully tackled similar issues by fully implementing automated control systems. “The difference was remarkable; it was much faster. I’m confident we’ll resolve this soon,” he stated.
The challenges are not limited to passport control. Lorenzo also pointed out another issue: the excessive taxi lines at Terminal 1 in Lanzarote. “I’ve never seen such long queues for taxis, especially after already waiting in the passport control line.”
These inefficiencies emphasise the need for action. As the Canary Islands strives to maintain its reputation as a premier European tourist destination, addressing these operational hurdles is essential for ensuring a seamless experience for visitors.
