Europe’s airport chief has raised concerns about potential struggles with the increasing delays caused by a new EU border system as the busy holiday season nears. Stefan Schulte, president of ACI Europe, expressed uncertainty about managing the expected rise in passenger traffic amid lengthy queues during peak times.
The EU introduced the Entry-Exit System (EES) earlier this year, requiring non-EU passengers to provide biometric data when entering and leaving most European countries. This system has led to significant delays and flight disruptions at various airports, although some have implemented it more smoothly.
Recent reports from Athens highlighted how the absence of the EES led to missed flights and prolonged queues, prompting worries about future operational challenges. Schulte emphasized the need for flexibility in suspending the EES to prevent chaos and maintain a positive image as a welcoming destination for travelers.
While the European Commission has allowed certain airports to temporarily halt the EES until September under specific circumstances, Schulte warned that the system could face a collapse during the extended summer travel period. Issues have arisen in Greece regarding exemptions for biometric checks, causing confusion among travelers and officials.
Amid varying experiences with the new system, travelers have been advised to allocate extra time for processing, especially at popular destinations like Spain, Portugal, and France. The airport industry is calling for a reevaluation of the EES implementation to ensure efficient border control without causing unnecessary disruptions for passengers.
