A UK-born infant was blocked from boarding a flight to Scotland at Alicante Airport after authorities enforced new border rules requiring dual British nationals to present a British passport or Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode. The child, 10-month-old Lily Rodgers, holds both British and Austrian citizenship but does not possess either required document, prompting airline staff to deny boarding on 27 February 2026.

The family, from Aberdeenshire, had been on a short holiday when the issue arose at the gate. They visited the British Embassy in Alicante the next day and attempted to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), but the application was rejected. The UK government confirmed that dual nationals are not eligible for ETAs and must instead hold valid British travel documents.

The family paid for an additional night in Spain before travelling to Austria to stay with relatives. They have applied for a British passport for Lily, but processing could take up to ten weeks. Schengen Area visa restrictions limit their ability to remain in Europe indefinitely.

The Home Office stated the rule, in effect since 25 February 2026, mandates that airlines verify travel documents before boarding and that information about the change has been publicly available since 2024. Officials emphasized that carriers face penalties for non-compliance and must rely on documented proof of entitlement.

Campaigners warn the policy may affect other families unaware of the requirement, particularly those with young children born abroad or holding dual nationality. The court will resume hearing on Tuesday.