Key Takeaways:
- Major European aviation bodies warn the new Entry/Exit System (EES) could cause border queues of four hours or more this summer.
- They are calling for an immediate review of the implementation timeline, citing chronic understaffing and unresolved technology issues.
- The EU Commission has offered a partial suspension option for Schengen states during peak season, but industry leaders say more flexibility is needed.
Aviation Industry Sounds Alarm Over EES Delays
Europe's leading airlines and airports have issued a stark warning: the ongoing rollout of the EU's new biometric border system threatens to plunge major travel hubs into chaos this summer. 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 of the Entry/Exit System (EES) timeline.
They argue that without immediate action, the peak summer months could see "severe disruptions" with waiting times at Schengen border checks potentially ballooning to four hours or more. This comes as the system, designed to digitally register non-EU visitors, continues to cause significant delays in its initial phase.
"There is a complete disconnect between the perception of the EU institutions that EES is working well, and the reality, which is that non-EU travellers are experiencing massive delays and inconvenience," stated industry leaders.
What Is the EES and Why Is It Causing Problems?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a major digital overhaul of the EU's external border management. It is being rolled out across the Schengen Area (except Cyprus and Ireland) and associated countries like Norway and Switzerland.
Its core function is to replace manual passport stamping for third-country nationals (like US, UK, or Australian visitors) with an automated digital record. Upon first entry, travelers must register:
- Personal data (name, travel document details)
- Biometric information (fingerprints and facial image)
The system then tracks each entry and exit to enforce the 90/180-day rule for short-stay visitors. While the goal is enhanced security and efficiency, the practical implementation has hit snags.
The aviation groups pinpoint three critical failures:
- Chronic border control understaffing at airports.
- Unresolved technology issues, particularly with border automation gates.
- The very limited uptake of a pre-registration app designed to speed up the process.
The App That Almost Nobody Uses
A key tool meant to alleviate pressure is struggling to gain traction. EU border agency Frontex developed the back-end for a self-registration app, allowing travelers to input data before arriving at the border. However, its adoption by member states is voluntary.
So far, only Sweden has implemented and is using the app's front-end. This lack of widespread deployment means the vast majority of travelers must complete the entire registration process—including biometric scans—at the airport kiosk or border booth, a time-consuming procedure that bottlenecks queues.
EU's Contingency Plan vs. Industry Demands
Recognizing the potential for summer travel chaos, the European Commission has already outlined a contingency measure. A Commission spokesperson confirmed that after the initial six-month rollout period (set to end in April 2026), Schengen states can partially suspend EES operations where necessary.
This suspension could last for an initial 90 days, with a possible 60-day extension, specifically designed to cover the summer peak. The Commission views this as a sufficient safety valve.
However, the aviation industry argues this isn't enough. They are calling for greater flexibility or an amendment to the implementation timeline itself. Their concern is that the system is not yet robust enough to handle the doubling of airport traffic expected in July and August.
The Stakes for European Travel
The push for a review is not just about avoiding long lines. Industry leaders frame it as essential for protecting Europe's global image.
"The rollout of EES must be flexible to react to operational realities," they stated. "This is an absolute prerequisite for its success – and for safeguarding the reputation of the EU as an efficient, welcoming and desirable destination."
The coming months will be a critical test. Will the EU's new digital border become a seamless gateway or a summer holiday nightmare? The answer may depend on whether Brussels heeds the warnings from those who run Europe's airports and skies.