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The United Kingdom has made adjustments to its recently launched Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) program, which was introduced for U.S. passengers on January 8. Initially, the ETA required nonvisa travelers, including those transiting through the U.K., to apply for authorization and pay a fee of 10 British pounds.
Following feedback from the aviation sector, the government has decided that transit passengers will no longer need an ETA. This change comes after criticism from airlines such as British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, and airport operators who argued that the rule was uncompetitive compared to other global hubs.
Heathrow Airport expressed concerns that the initial policy could lead to a loss of up to four million passengers annually. "The removal of airside transit passengers from the ETA scheme is the right decision and we welcome it," said Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye. He added that it demonstrates "the Government is listening to industry concerns and is willing to make necessary changes."
