News: Spanish to introduce new security measures

Flights > News > # 1276 (21/05/2007)

The Times has reported that British passengers flying to Spain will have to provide extra information as the Spanish government moves to introduce US-style entry procedures.
Under the new regulations, which will be introduced on June 13, all British visitors entering Spain will have to submit Advance Passenger Information (API), which includes date of birth and passport number. Visitors who don’t submit this information after the intended date, via their airline or travel agent, may be barred from flights.
An Easyjet spokesman told The Times that it is still undecided on how to collect the information from passengers, adding: “EasyJet is aware of the change in requirements and is working with the Spanish authorities to achieve compliance as soon as possible.”
Meanwhile, British Airways has adapted its website to allow passengers to enter the information using the “Manage my Booking” facility on www.ba.com and will prompt passengers to enter their details at the time of booking. It says passengers can also give the information to check-in staff at the airport, although the carrier warns this could spark delays.
A statement issued by BA said: “Staff at check-in desks will also be able to collect API data but passengers are strongly advised to supply the information prior to arrival at the airport, or at a self service kiosk where available, to avoid unnecessary delays.”
The new rule, issued by the Spanish Ministry of the Interior will apply only to countries that are not signed up to the Schengen treaty, an agreement which allows free travel, without presentation of a passport, between the 15 European countries that are members. The UK is not a member of this scheme.