Brighton and Sussex passengers using Gatwick Airport for holidays to Europe should be aware of possible delays linked to the EU Entry/Exit System, especially when arriving at or returning from busy Schengen airports.
EES is a new digital border system for non-EU travellers, including many UK passport holders, visiting the Schengen area for short stays. Travellers may need to register biometric details such as fingerprints and a photo at the border.
If you are flying from Gatwick to Europe, leave more time than normal, check your destination airport, and do not assume border queues will be the same as before EES.
What Is EES?
EES stands for Entry/Exit System. It is the European Union’s digital border system for registering non-EU nationals each time they enter or leave the Schengen area for a short stay.
For many British travellers, this replaces manual passport stamping with a digital record. On first registration, travellers may be asked to provide fingerprints and have a facial image taken.
Why Gatwick Passengers Should Care
Gatwick is one of the main airports for Brighton, Hove and Sussex passengers travelling to Europe. Many popular routes from Gatwick serve destinations in Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Greece and other Schengen countries.
The issue is not only the journey from Brighton to Gatwick. Passengers must also think about the return journey, airport queues abroad, check-in times and border processing at the European airport.
- Arrive earlier than normal if your airline advises it.
- Check your Gatwick flight before leaving home.
- Check your destination airport for local EES advice.
- Allow more time when returning from Europe to Gatwick.
- Keep water, charger and travel documents ready.
- Book your Brighton to Gatwick taxi early for busy travel dates.
Do not leave airport travel until the last minute.
If EES delays affect your return airport, missed flights and long queues can make the journey stressful. Plan the full journey: home to Gatwick, Gatwick to Europe, return airport, and Gatwick back to Sussex.
Official EES and Gatwick Links
Use these links to check official information before travelling.
Countries and Routes Passengers Are Searching For
Many travellers are searching for EES delays connected with popular holiday routes from Gatwick. These searches are especially relevant during summer and school holiday periods.
Brighton to Gatwick Taxi Planning
If you are travelling from Brighton, Hove or Sussex to Gatwick Airport, your airport taxi should be planned around your airline check-in time, flight departure time, luggage, passenger numbers and any airport advice.
When there are warnings about longer queues abroad, it is even more important to keep the UK side of your journey calm and predictable.
Returning to Gatwick from Europe?
Make sure your return pickup is realistic. If your flight is delayed because of overseas airport queues, keep your taxi provider updated and check your flight status.
What to Do Before You Travel
- Check Gatwick departures before leaving Brighton or Sussex.
- Read your airline’s latest advice about check-in times.
- Check GOV.UK EES guidance before travelling to Schengen countries.
- Check destination airport advice, especially for Portugal, Spain and France.
- Carry a charged phone and portable charger.
- Keep passport, boarding pass and travel documents ready.
- Book airport taxis early during summer, half-term and bank holidays.
Sussex Areas We Cover for Gatwick Transfers
Sussex Airports Taxis provides pre-booked Gatwick Airport transfers from Brighton, Hove and surrounding Sussex areas.
Why Book Sussex Airports Taxis?
Sussex Airports Taxis helps Brighton and Sussex passengers travel to Gatwick Airport with pre-booked private hire transfers. During periods of airport disruption or travel warnings, planning your taxi early can help reduce stress.
- Pre-booked Gatwick Airport transfers.
- Brighton, Hove and Sussex airport taxis.
- Useful for families, luggage, early flights and late returns.
- Airport pickups and drop-offs to Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted, Luton and London City.
- Book by Phone | Web | App.
Flying from Gatwick? Book Your Airport Taxi Early
If you are travelling from Brighton, Hove or Sussex to Gatwick Airport, book early and check your flight, airline advice and EES guidance before leaving.
Book by Phone | Web | App.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is EES at Gatwick Airport?
EES is not a Gatwick-only system. It is the EU Entry/Exit System affecting many UK travellers entering or leaving Schengen countries.
Will EES cause delays at Gatwick?
The main EES delays may happen at European border points, but Gatwick passengers should still allow extra time and check airline advice.
Which destinations are affected by EES?
EES applies to Schengen countries. Popular Gatwick routes may include Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Greece and other European destinations.
Should I arrive earlier for my Gatwick flight?
Follow your airline’s check-in advice and check Gatwick live flight information before leaving home.
Can I book a taxi from Brighton to Gatwick?
Yes. Sussex Airports Taxis provides pre-booked Gatwick Airport transfers from Brighton, Hove and Sussex.
How do I book Sussex Airports Taxis?
You can book through the Sussex Airports Taxis website, by phone, or by using the Sussex Go App.