EES Rollout Creates Mixed Results and Long Waits at EU Borders
The Entry/Exit System (EES), a new biometric registration system for non-EU travelers, began its rollout in October 2023 and is now fully operational. The process has led to significantly increased waiting times at border controls across the bloc.
An IATA representative has warned that queues could reach up to six hours in some locations.
During the introductory period, substantial queues formed at several airports during peak hours. Performance has since varied widely: some airports report smooth operations, while others have seen waits stretch to several hours.
Technology and Staffing Blamed for Delays
Travel experts and industry figures attribute the delays primarily to technology issues and insufficient staffing levels. There have also been reports of travelers needing to register their biometric data multiple times due to system glitches.
Advice for Passengers and Airline Policies
The UK boss of Wizz Air has advised passengers to arrive three hours before their flight home. Some passengers have already missed flights due to the additional EES checks.
Airlines have differing policies on holding flights for delayed passengers.
- Some carriers will wait where possible.
- Ryanair has stated it will not hold flights, leaving passengers to face the consequences of long border queues.