EU Entry/Exit System Triggers Hours‑Long Queues at European Airports

The European Union's new Entry/Exit System (EES), a digital border‑control procedure that records fingerprints and facial images of non‑Schengen travelers, has caused extensive delays at airports across the bloc. Since its full rollout in April, passengers report queues lasting up to five hours, missed connections and widespread frustration, especially during the summer travel season.

Airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet have labeled the system “completely unacceptable” and are urging a temporary suspension of the checks during peak periods. Nine EU member states – Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal and Switzerland – have jointly requested greater flexibility, including the possibility of pausing controls when capacity is insufficient. The Airports Council International also highlighted the operational strain on terminals.

The EES replaces traditional passport stamps with biometric data, but the required on‑site registration at self‑service kiosks slows processing. Only Sweden and Portugal have fully implemented the supporting EU app that could allow pre‑registration. The ongoing disruption underscores tension between heightened security aims and the practical impact on air travel.