Originally Posted by
brownc
If you use an E-gate and it says "Seek Assistance", is there any benefit in trying another gate or is your passport "locked" or some such for a short time such that you actually do need to seek assistance from BF?
I ask as I am in a similar situation to many on here where passport works around the world and including GLA and EDI but has never worked in T5 or T3 at LHR. I have taken to just joining the queue for an agent.
No, it doesn't "lock" your passport and often you can have success after trying another gate. It's just appalling technology. I think I once got lucky after trying 4 gates (!) because the "seek assistance" line was so long and I was desperate not to wait. However, often the staff monitoring the eGates are jobsworths and don't allow people to try other gates if their one fails, so try and keep it down low rather than shouting for assistance.