EU Border Control System Creates Significant Airport Delays for International Travellers

The European Union’s Entry Exit System is causing substantial delays at airports across the continent, with passenger processing times increasing by four to five times compared to previous border control procedures. Industry representatives report waiting times of up to two hours at border checkpoints, raising concerns about operational capacity during peak travel periods.

The digital system, which began its phased introduction in October, requires non-EU citizens to register fingerprints and facial photographs alongside passport scans during their first entry to the Schengen free-movement zone. This biometric data remains valid for three years, with subsequent entries requiring verification against stored records. Air travellers typically complete registration using automated kiosks upon arrival at European airports.

Current implementation targets call for half of all border points to operate the system, processing at least one-third of non-EU passengers. However, operational challenges have emerged during the rollout phase. Olivier Jankovec, director general of Airports Council International Europe, which represents over 600 airports, identifies insufficient border staff numbers and equipment malfunctions as primary obstacles to efficient processing.

Julia Lo Bue-Said, who runs travel agent network Advantage Partnership, observes that the new system has intensified existing bottlenecks at already congested border points. The travel industry anticipates more severe disruption when leisure travellers register in large numbers during Easter and summer holiday periods.

European Commission data indicates that 23 million entries and exits have been recorded under the system to date, with 12,000 entry refusals issued. Commission spokesperson Markus Lammert maintains that operations have proceeded largely without incident, whilst acknowledging ongoing work to address implementation challenges.

From 10 April, the system is scheduled for full deployment at every border crossing for all eligible passengers. However, member states retain authority to suspend operations partially during summer months through September if circumstances require. Jankovec suggests such measures may prove necessary to prevent waiting times extending to five or six hours, particularly if staffing levels and equipment reliability do not improve substantially.

Travel association ABTA contends that border authorities are underutilising available contingency measures to reduce checks during high-volume periods, resulting in extended passenger delays. The organisation calls for enhanced planning coordination between destinations and border authorities ahead of peak travel seasons. Industry advisers recommend travellers prepare for lengthy waits during February half-term and subsequent busy periods, particularly at peak times.