UK introduces £10 travel fee for Heathrow connections from April

Starting in April 2024, a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system will require most international travelers to pay a £10 fee to enter the UK, even for short connections at Heathrow Airport. This initiative, confirmed by the Labour government, aims to enhance border security and track non-visa travelers more effectively. However, it has raised concerns among airport officials about potential financial repercussions, particularly at Heathrow, which could see significant passenger losses. Early trials indicated that one in six passengers were deterred from flying through the UK due to the fee, leading to predictions of up to £5 billion in economic losses annually from reduced connecting flights. The scheme, which has already been in effect for select Middle Eastern countries since November 2023, will expand to include all non-UK and non-EU nationals by April 2025. Heathrow Airport has expressed its apprehension, stating that the inclusion of airside transit passengers could diminish the UK's competitiveness in the global travel market. The government maintains that the ETA will streamline the travel experience and bolster the tourism economy, which is expected to contribute over £32 billion this year. As the rollout progresses, both the government and airport authorities are urged to collaborate to mitigate the adverse effects on travel and economic growth.