London Heathrow Airport has welcomed the UK Home Office’s decision to reverse a controversial policy requiring transit passengers to obtain an online Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before changing flights.
Earlier this month, the Home Office introduced a rule that non-European travelers heading to the UK without a visa needed to apply for an ETA online, costing £10. The policy applied even to passengers who were only transiting through Heathrow and not leaving the airport or passing through UK border control.
This requirement was unique to Heathrow, unlike other major global airports, and was expected to send thousands of passengers daily to alternative European airports that do not have similar rules. There were concerns that Heathrow could lose up to 4 million passengers annually due to the change.
The policy, initially backed by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government, was designed to reduce the risk of illegal migration by preventing airside transit without an ETA. However, under pressure from the aviation industry, including Heathrow and major airlines, the Home Office has agreed to a temporary exemption for passengers transiting airside without going through passport control.
A government statement confirmed the change, noting that “following feedback from the aviation industry, the government has agreed a temporary exemption for passengers who transit airside.” While the exemption will be reviewed, many in the industry believe the rule will not be reinstated.
Thomas Woldbye, CEO of Heathrow, praised the move, saying: “The removal of airside transit passengers from the ETA scheme is the right decision. This is a crucial step to ensure Heathrow and the aviation industry can continue to serve passengers effectively.”
The reversal of the policy is seen as a win for the UK’s competitiveness and a sign that the government is responsive to industry concerns. Heathrow remains the UK’s largest hub for connecting flights, with Manchester Airport offering a much smaller transit facility.
In a related development, the Home Office announced a potential increase in the ETA fee from £10 to £16, though it is unclear when this change will take place. Starting 2 April 2025, all non-UK and non-Irish arrivals, except for those in airside transit, will need an ETA to enter the UK.
