The Holiday Guru is here to answer travellers’ questions.
This week he tackles queries that revolve around airport security recognition scanners, Eurostar’s policy around pets, easyJet flight delay compensation and more…
Q. I had a cataract removed and replaced with a new lens a few weeks ago. We are flying to Nuremberg next month – will my new eye be accepted by airport security recognition scanners? Or will I have to join queues for manual passport inspection?
Susan Trower, via email
A. Whether Nuremburg or anywhere else, the Home Office says that e-Passport gates at airports do not in fact scan eyes, stating: ‘Cataract surgery will have no implications for an individual using them’. The gates authenticate passports and then using ‘facial biometric comparison techniques to confirm the identity of the holder’. Further information can be found at ‘e-Passport gate guidance’ at gov.uk.
Security check: The Holiday Guru reveals that e-Passport gates at airports do not scan eyes
Q. Our easyJet flight was delayed four hours from Barcelona to Manchester. My husband got compensation [under EU regulation 261]. But I’ve been told I’m not eligible. Why is this? I sat next to my husband on the flight.
Lynne Horabin, via email
A. Because you booked your flight via a travel agent, you needed to tick a box on the compensation form that says your agent rather than you were the ‘booker’. Your husband must have done this. EasyJet says it will call and talk you through it; you are due £350 compensation.
Q. Is Eurostar planning to allow dogs to travel in the near future? I drive to southern Italy at least once a year, so I can take my dog with me, but at 1,800 miles each way, it takes its toll. I would love to go by train to Paris and onwards to Italy.
Antonio Sandivasci, via email
A. Unfortunately not. Eurostar says its trains are not equipped to safely transport dogs – and the same problem crops up at terminals in European cities. Eurostar allows only guide dogs and assistance dogs but it must be alerted in advance so staff can book a seat both for the owner and the dog (at no extra cost) to allow enough space.
A reader inquires about whether Eurostar is planning to allow dogs to travel on board in the future (stock photo)
Q. Will we need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel and Information Authorisation) and go through the EES (Entry/Exit System) to enter the EU from the UK in the future?
Geoff Dowdall, via email
A. Yes. ETIAS travel permits, which last three years or until your passport runs out, will cost £6 and are ‘expected’ to be introduced next year (etias.com). Meanwhile, the Entry/Exit System, which will scan passports and use biometrics, is also due next year.
Q. I plan to go to Las Vegas in December, but my passport will be beyond the ten-year period since being issued. I have extra validity on the passport beyond ten years as I renewed it early. Will I be ok?
Eddie Jones, Portsmouth
A. You’ll be fine. It is only within the EU that you must have a passport issued within ten years.
A reader travelling to Las Vegas (above) asks the Guru whether their passport will be valid for entry into the U.S
Q. My husband and I travelled to Sydney, flying with Qatar Airways from Manchester via Doha but our luggage did not arrive. We were told to purchase what we required and claim it back. After a few days, the luggage had still not come so we went to the airport. A kind official helped us find our bags, which had not cleared customs. We have made a claim for expenses from Qatar but have heard nothing. Can you help?
Christine Truslove, Bolton
A. Qatar Airways apologises for the delayed baggage and will cover your expenses.
WE’RE HERE TO HELP
If you need advice, the Holiday Guru is here to answer your questions. Email us at holidayplanner@dailymail.co.uk
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Will my cataract op affect airport scans? Can I take my dog on the Eurostar? The Holiday Guru tackles travellers’ questions…
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