The EU is planning measures to address long lines caused by the new border entry system

The European Commission will hold talks with EU member states as part of efforts to ensure that the EU’s new border control system does not cause significant delays for vacationers this summer. 

In a letter to airport and airline executives, European Commissioner for Migration Magnus Brunner stated that the Entry/Exit System (EES), which has been phased in since last October, is intended to ensure the safety of citizens without causing undue inconvenience to visitors from outside the Schengen Area.

Previously, industry groups, including “Airlines for Europe” and the International Air Transport Association, had expressed serious concerns about long lines and delays for those traveling to and from the EU. Under the rules, citizens of non-EU countries have their fingerprints taken and are photographed instead of having their passports stamped; however, the system’s launch was marred by technical issues on the part of national governments, leading to longer wait times. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen acknowledged that the technical issues will require significant effort to resolve.

Although Brunner noted that the EES is working well in most member states and airports, he acknowledged that there are longer lines at certain locations due to insufficient staffing or a lack of adequate infrastructure. Currently, capital cities may temporarily suspend the requirement to collect biometric data to speed up the process. However, the Commission will now make additional efforts to assist those member states that are still facing challenges, and officials will work with governments to eliminate delays.

This was reported by Politico. 

European airports in 15 countries have faced serious delays due to the implementation of the new electronic border control system, the EES (Entry/Exit System). Passengers at major hubs in France, Germany, Spain, and other countries are forced to wait up to three hours for screening. 

The Irish airline Ryanair has threatened to reroute passengers from Malta to other destinations. The reason is delays at border control at the local airport following the launch of the new EU entry system.