Key Takeaways:
- Major European aviation groups warn of potential 4-hour queues at Schengen borders this summer due to the new EES system.
- They call for an immediate review of the implementation timeline, citing chronic understaffing and unresolved tech issues.
- The EU has offered a partial suspension option for the summer, but industry leaders say more flexibility is needed.
Aviation Industry Sounds Alarm Over EES
Europe's leading airlines and airport operators have issued a stark warning: the ongoing rollout of the EU's new Entry/Exit System (EES) risks causing border chaos during the peak summer travel season. In a joint letter to the European Commission, groups including Airports Council International (ACI) Europe, Airlines for Europe (A4E), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) demanded an urgent review.
They argue that without immediate action, passengers could face waiting times of four hours or more at Schengen border checks in July and August. This comes as tourism traffic is set to double at many airports.
"Failing immediate action to provide sufficient flexibility, severe disruptions over the peak summer months are a real prospect," the groups warned.
What Is the EES and Why Is It Causing Delays?
The EES is the EU's new digital border system designed to replace manual passport stamping. It requires non-EU nationals entering the Schengen zone to register:
- Personal data
- Biometric information (like fingerprints and facial images)
The system tracks entries and exits to enforce the 90/180-day rule. Launched in October 2025, it was meant to reach full operation by April 2026 across most EU and Schengen countries.
However, the aviation industry cites three critical failures causing current delays of up to two hours:
- Chronic border control understaffing
- Unresolved technology issues, especially with border automation
- Very limited uptake of the optional Frontex pre-registration app
The App That Nobody Uses
A key part of the solution was supposed to be a Frontex-developed pre-registration app. Travelers could theoretically submit their data before arrival to speed up the process.
But its adoption has been dismal. The app is offered to Schengen states on a voluntary basis, and so far, only Sweden has implemented it. Each government must develop its own front-end, creating a fragmented and ineffective rollout.
EU's Contingency Plan and Industry Dissatisfaction
In response to earlier concerns, the European Commission has already offered a contingency measure. A spokesperson confirmed that after the initial rollout, member states can partially suspend EES operations for up to 150 days to cover the summer peak.
But aviation leaders say this isn't enough. They describe a "complete disconnect" between the EU's perception that "EES is working well" and the on-the-ground reality of "massive delays and inconvenience" for travelers.
They are calling for either greater flexibility or an official amendment to the implementation timeline itself.
Reputation at Stake
The groups framed the issue as critical for Europe's global image. A successful, efficient border system is not just an operational necessity but a prerequisite for safeguarding the EU's reputation as a welcoming and desirable destination.
With the summer travel surge imminent, the pressure is on EU institutions to find a workable solution before airports become synonymous with endless queues and frustration.