Advance Passenger Information Required For Spain Holidays

An introduction of US-style border controls by Spanish authorities will commence in June this year. Advance Passenger Information (API) is required for anyone travelling to the country from June 13, 2007. Spain is bringing in the new European security measures early while other EU member countries will introduce them within the next year. The procedure is currently a standard process for customers travelling from the UK to Canada, Mexico & the Caribbean.

Collecting API is a simple procedure carried out during the check-in process, which should not make much difference to customers at check-in. The compulsory information, which includes full name, nationality, date of birth and passport number, is required for ensuring aviation safety and security.

Every airline will be required to collect this information from all passengers travelling to Spain. Travellers not submitting this information could face a flight ban.

Thomsonfly will commence collection of Advance Passenger Information (API) on flights from the UK to Spain from early June. British Airways will not allow passengers to board a Spain-bound flight if the API has not been submitted, this is due to the threat of a company fine up to €60,000 (£40,950) if passengers fail to comply with new regulations.

A statement from the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) claimed: "The new Spanish Advanced Passenger Information requirements are very badly timed...we would advise customers where possible to input their information online and where that is not possible to check-in a little bit earlier."

A spokesman from British Airways said: "This is just part of the world we live in now. We have had these measures applicable to the USA for some time now and as and when they are introduced we must comply with what's required...we will be taking steps in the next few weeks to ensure our passengers are fully informed of the changes."