One month after launch, impact of the EU Schengen-area Entry/Exit System (EES) is already being seen as one coach operator says it has had to cut back its continental programme by around 50%.
EES – a digital border management system which is being phased in for non-EU citizens entering or leaving Schengen – means the EU’s 90/180-day rule will be strictly enforced.
That will particularly affect coach drivers, who will be unable to spend more than 90 out of 180 days in the region, whether for work or holidays.
Jason Edwards, Managing Director of Jason Edwards Travel, which has already published its 2026 overseas calendar and assigned drivers, says: “I think it’s fair to say we’ve reduced our European programme by about 50%.
“European drivers are a standalone breed with experience and knowledge, so we only have a small number of drivers that we’re comfortable to send.”
He has added to calls made by the Confederation of Passenger Transport, RHA and others for the government to lobby the EU to exempt professional drivers.
Mr Edwards, who is an RHA board member, adds: “Our coaches turn up with 40 or 50 passengers, who each spend in the region of £20-40 per person [per day]. That money is being spent locally with the museums, cafés and so forth.
“We’ve reduced our programme by a significant amount and we’re only a small business, so imagine the damage that will ripple through the economy of Europe.”
