Key Highlights
- A British holidaymaker died at Lanzarote airport shortly after disembarking from a Jet2 flight.
- The man reportedly collapsed near the passport control area less than half an hour after landing.
- Emergency responders were unable to save him and he was pronounced dead on the spot.
- Sources suggest the cause of death was natural, possibly a heart attack.
- This incident has sparked fresh complaints about long queues at passport controls in Lanzarote.
The Grim Reality of Holiday Tourism
Brits jetting off for sun and fun on holiday are often reminded that their travels come with an unpredictable risk. Just a few days ago, the grim reality of holiday tourism took another toll as a British traveler met his end in Lanzarote’s airport.
A Sudden Collapse
Not always does an airport collapse mean the worst; this time it was far from it. The unnamed Brit reportedly collapsed near the passport control area, a location that passengers are directed to just before reaching their final destination. Despite the alarm being raised barely 25 minutes after landing, emergency services were unable to save him.
Heart Attack Suspected
Sources close to the situation suggested that the man died of natural causes, with heart attack being a leading theory. This is not the first time such incidents have occurred in the tourism hotspots. The Lanzarote airport, while a gateway to paradise, has been criticized for its harsh conditions—no access to toilets or seats, and temperatures that can soar.
Long Queues: A Daily Struggle
The incident comes as no surprise to those familiar with the daily struggles at Lanzarote’s passport control. Late last year, British holidaymakers reported two-hour delays upon arrival due to a new automated Entry/Exist IT system that had been introduced for non-EU citizens. Local unions of police officers complained about technical issues and blamed the lack of officers employed to carry out passport checks.
Expert Perspectives
A spokesman from the SUP National Police union warned travelers, especially on international flights, to get to the airport four hours before departure to avoid problems. This advice is met with skepticism by many, who argue that these warnings are more about appeasing corporate interests than ensuring safety and comfort for passengers.
What Lies Ahead?
The incident at Lanzarote’s airport has reignited debates over the quality of service provided to tourists. While it’s a stark reminder of life’s unpredictability, it also highlights the need for better infrastructure and more compassionate care in busy travel hubs.
You might think this is new, but the truth is, these issues have been bubbling under the surface for years. Until we see real action from airport authorities and local governments, holidaymakers will continue to face these challenges on their sunny vacations.
