Long Airport Queues Under New EU Border Control System: A Comprehensive Overview
The upcoming holiday periods are causing concern among travelers as the new biometric border system is rolled out across European airports. Passengers have already reported hours-long waits at busy times, with some destinations experiencing three-hour queues at passport control. A group representing airports warns of five-to-six-hour queues over the summer, while the European Commission suggests the possibility of suspending the new system at peak times until September.
The Entry-Exit System (EES) is designed to replace ink stamps on passports and requires non-EU citizens to register fingerprints and a photo, along with having their passport scanned, the first time they cross a border within the Schengen free-movement zone. This registration lasts for three years. The system is currently being gradually introduced, with half of border points operating EES and at least a third of non-EU passengers using it. However, the implementation has been a major challenge for Swiss customs and Geneva Airport, leading to congestion, particularly on Saturdays during the busy ski season.
The new system has created bottlenecks and pinch points in places that were already challenged, according to Julia Lo Bue-Said, who runs the travel agent network Advantage Partnership. The passenger processing time at border control has increased by four to five times, with people typically waiting up to two hours. Problems include a lack of border staff and malfunctioning machines. The situation is expected to worsen during the Easter and summer holiday periods, with 23 million entries and exits already registered under EES and 12,000 refusals of entry.
To address these issues, countries can partially suspend EES operations over the summer until September. However, without such measures, the situation could become unsustainable, leading to five-to-six-hour waiting times. The group representing airports emphasizes the need for close coordination with border control authorities to ensure timely suspension of the system. The travel association ABTA also highlights the under-use of the ability to reduce checks when necessary, leading to lengthy delays for passengers.
Travelers are advised to come prepared for long waits, especially during peak times. It is recommended to plan for the worst, bring refreshments, and have activities to keep children occupied. The new system is a necessary step towards a more efficient border control process, but it requires careful management to ensure a smooth travel experience for all.
