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Simon Calder, who is also recognized as The Man Who Pays His Way, has been a contributor for The Independent since 1994, covering topics related to travel. In his regular column, he delves into important matters in the travel industry and how they can impact individuals.
“Was this assault rifle packed by you?”
Last month, I shared my experience of an unusual evening spent at Stansted airport, which served as the setting for the action movie One More Shot.
The airport, nicknamed “Stannywood”, was used as a stand-in for the “Washington Baltimore” airport. The movie filmed at Stansted features an abundance of gun violence. I wrote that the terminal proves to be deadly for many characters, with a death toll that rivals the capacity of an Airbus A320.
The recently released drama series Truelove on Channel 4 explores the complexities of ethical dilemmas surrounding life and death. The creators pose the question, “Is it ever justifiable to assist in ending a life?” and the final episode features a pivotal airport scene.
The object utilized to hinder flight was not a semi-automatic gun, but rather the post-Brexit regulation regarding British passport holders traveling to the European Union.
At the Bristol airport, David (portrayed by Peter Egan) is at the airline counter preparing for his flight to Malaga. He urgently needs to travel to Spain and hands his passport to the check-in agent, who carefully examines it.
“Is there an issue or problem that needs addressing?”
The check-in agent confirms by saying, “Okay, do you see?”
David asks, “What is this that I am viewing?”
“You have a remaining time of two months and 26 days for this task. The EU requires a minimum of three months.”
David asserts that the passport is valid.
“Unfortunately, we can only issue a three-month visa for the EU/Schengen region. I apologize, sir. Who is next in line?”
Keen observers (or individuals like myself who may need to spend more time outdoors) will quickly realize that David’s passport is classified as “blue” – a version that has only been distributed since 2020. The soonest this type of adult passport can expire is in 2030.
Unfortunately, this pivotal development causes confusion with regards to the regulations. When traveling to the EU, a British passport cannot exceed 10 years in age. Similarly, when returning on the scheduled date, the passport must have at least three months of validity remaining. Focusing solely on the expiration date may result in viewers being unaware of the 10-year requirement.
Viewers of One More Shot will not think they can bring a gun to the Stansted security checkpoint, but those who watch Truelove may mistakenly believe that only the UK passport’s expiration date matters for travel to the European Union.
Upon returning to Bristol airport, David’s trip is encountering difficulties.
“I must travel to Spain today.”
“If it is an urgent situation, the passport office will attend to you.”
“What – in London?”
“Newport is located just beyond the bridge. Following that is the next destination.”
The uncooperative check-in agent should have directed David to the Online Premium service, which allows you to complete the application process beforehand and schedule an appointment (in Newport, if one is open).
As long as your documents are in order, a passport will be issued immediately. However, at a high price of nearly £200, it is recommended to avoid this option. If you are planning to travel to the EU, now is a good time to check the issue and expiration dates of your passport and those of your fellow travelers. Keep in mind that passports for individuals under 16 years old expire after five years, which can be particularly frustrating.
Currently, it appears that passport renewals are being processed in just one week. Therefore, please keep in mind that international travel already has enough complications.
Source: independent.co.uk
