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Europe's New EES System Causes Travel Chaos
17 Mar
Summary
- EU's new Entry/Exit System requires biometrics from non-EU nationals.
- Summer travel could see four-hour queues due to the system.
- Industry bodies warn of disconnect between EU perception and reality.
The European Union's new Entry/Exit System (EES), implemented in October 2025, mandates biometric data collection, including fingerprints and photos, from non-EU nationals entering the Schengen Area. Initially slated for full airport rollout by April 2026, the EU has since offered 'flexibilities' for the summer to mitigate anticipated long queues. Aviation industry bodies have expressed serious concerns, warning of potential four-hour delays if the system is not managed adaptively.
Reports indicate that the phased introduction of EES has already led to substantial waiting times, with some airports experiencing up to a 70% increase in border wait times. Hubs in Germany, France, Italy, and Spain have been particularly affected. Travel experts are advising holidaymakers to allocate at least four hours for airport procedures and to consider longer layovers for connecting flights.
Despite the European Commission stating the system operates 'largely without issues,' industry representatives highlight a significant disconnect, pointing to chronic understaffing, technical malfunctions, and low uptake of a pre-registration app as compounding factors. These organizations are urging the EU to allow member states to partially or wholly suspend EES until the end of October to prevent severe disruptions during peak travel months and to safeguard Europe's reputation as a desirable destination.
