Paid-for 'fast track' passport control lanes may be introduced at more UK airports

Travelers could be given the opportunity to 'fast track' passport checks at more UK airports, paying up to £17.50 for the privilege.

The Home Office has confirmed Border Force is "working closely with several airport operators to introduce a Fast Track Passport Control service".

There are no current plans to roll the scheme out nationwide, the Home Office told ITV News, but a similar system is already in operation at both Heathrow and Gatwick.

At Heathrow, the only passengers currently allowed access to fast track services are premium passengers flying business or first class with participating airlines.

Currently, Gatwick airport has the "Premium Gatwick Passport Control service" which is limited to 50 people an hour, and allows passengers to use shorter queues if they book ahead.

Customers can pay £12.50 to use the fast lane through passport control on arrival and an additional £5 for fast track through security on their outbound flight, meaning inbound and outbound fast track costs £17.50 in total.

Passport control may be quicker in future for customers who pay. Credit: PA

The expansion of the scheme follows a consultation in 2013 where the Home Office proposed charging for fast track services, and increasing the cost of current services so they were not simply charging what it cost to run.

The document drawn up in 2013 says that the Home Office was planning to expand the "provision of dedicated VIP suites and premium fast-track processing through the border at certain ports".

It is not clear whether the cost of the service would increase to more than £17.50 either at Gatwick or elsewhere, and the Home Office say that the fee for the service is decided by the port operator - so prices could differ across the UK.

A spokesman for the Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) rubbished the idea, telling The Times: "This is a ridiculous idea that exposes just how understaffed our borders are.

"What happens if everyone opts to pay £5? We're back to square one."

The news comes as the Home Secretary said British holidaymakers may have to pay extra fees for visas to enter European countries after Brexit.