European airports and airlines are issuing urgent warnings as the EU's biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) approaches its full implementation deadline, with border queues reaching up to two hours and causing widespread flight disruptions across the continent.
Record Delays as EES Transition Ends
The Airports Council International (ACI Europe) and Airlines for Europe (A4E) have reported a significant deterioration in border crossing efficiency as the EU's new biometric system reaches a critical juncture. Since the mandatory registration of 50% of third-country nationals began on March 10th, waiting times have consistently worsened, with peak traffic periods seeing delays that can stretch to two hours or more.
- Peak Delays: Waiting times regularly reach up to two hours at busiest times, with some airports reporting even longer queues.
- Operational Impact: Passengers are increasingly missing flights due to prolonged border processing times.
- Geographic Spread: The issue affects airports of all sizes, from major hubs to regional stations.
Key Airports Affected
Several major European airports have been forced to partially or fully suspend EES processes during travel peaks, including: - afhow
- Brussels International (Belgium)
- Torino and Milan Malpensa (Italy)
- Frankfurt Airport (Germany)
- Major hubs in France, Spain, Portugal, and Greece
ACI Europe spokesperson confirmed that Belgium, Greece, Portugal, and Italy have experienced the longest waiting times, with the situation described as "not exhaustive" in its reach.
Background: EES Implementation Timeline
The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) was introduced gradually starting October 12th, 2025, across all 29 Schengen area countries (25 EU member states plus Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein). The system requires passengers to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and facial scans, upon entry.
- 50% Mandatory Registration: March 10th, 2026
- 100% Mandatory Registration: March 31st, 2026
- Full Implementation Deadline: April 9th, 2026
Warning of Further Deterioration
As the transition phase concludes during the Easter holiday travel peak, officials warn that the situation risks worsening significantly. From March 31st, Member States will no longer be able to suspend EES processes in response to operational pressures, removing a key safeguard currently used to manage traffic spikes.
"With the next critical milestones approaching, airports and airlines warn that the situation risks deteriorating further," the groups stated, emphasizing the urgent need for operational adjustments before the full deadline.
