We're flying Gdansk to DFW with a 40 minute (!) connection at Helsinki Airport. We've done this before -- and made our flight -- but not since HEL has implemented the new EES machines. We're booked through on the same ticket, but after reading about EES experiences in other European airports, I'm not feeling great about making our connection.
Any personal experiences to share? Or advice in general?
Thanks in advance!
My advice is not to panic. Many airports are simply abandoning the EES machines and processing by hand when demand overwhelms capacity. If the machines are working, it is quick. If they aren’t working they will have an alternative.
Ask yourself what is the worst that could happen? In this case getting home a day later.
Thanks Carol! Not panicking at all, just looking for anyone who's been through HEL recently. I'm also reading about faster lines for folks who have a short connection -- not sure if that applies in this case. We can and have spent extra nights when airlines have problems, but not due to immigration lines. Sometimes hearing from others who have direct experience with the new situation at a particular airport can help inform our backup decisions whilst in the moment!
Yes, I understand. The challenge here is that one person’s EES experience at a specific airport simply can’t be generalized. Same airport, same day and people are having vastly different experiences and timings.
Edited to add- I’m flying through Helsinki next month and am also hopeful it will be a quick process.
