EU's Entry/Exit System Triggers Airport Gridlock and Passenger Frustration
Airports across Europe are experiencing significant delays and chaotic scenes as the European Union's new Entry/Exit System (EES) comes into full effect. This security measure, implemented last October, requires non-EU travellers to undergo biometric registration, including photo and fingerprint scans, at border controls. The result has been a dramatic increase in processing times, with reports of queues stretching for hours and passengers missing their flights despite arriving well in advance.
Family's Holiday Nightmare Highlights Systemic Failures
A recent incident involving a family of four from London underscores the severity of the issue. The family missed their easyJet flight home from Málaga, Spain, after arriving three hours before departure as advised by the airport. However, the airline's bag drop-off did not open until two hours before the flight, leading to a 47-minute wait to check luggage. This left only 53 minutes to clear security and reach the gate, an impossible task with two young children and a backlog at security. Five other passengers also failed to board, highlighting a widespread problem.
Industry Warnings and Inadequate Responses
According to the Airports Council International, the EES has caused a 70% rise in security processing times. In December, Lisbon airport was forced to suspend the system temporarily when waits reached seven hours. EasyJet acknowledged that airlines control bag drop times but has no plans to extend its current two-hour window, despite admitting to abnormally long queues on the day the family travelled. The airline offered "rescue fares" for stranded passengers, but this did little to alleviate the financial burden, with the affected family paying an additional £1,000 to return home.
Call for Action Amid Summer Travel Fears
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned that the full rollout of the EES poses an operational risk, especially with the summer peak approaching. IATA has urged EU member states to consider suspending the system during peak periods, reinforce staffing, and eliminate redundant checks. However, it noted that "operational, regulatory, and commercial realities" prevent a unified approach among airlines. As a result, travellers are advised to pack light, using only cabin bags to avoid luggage check-in delays and ensure they board their flights.
This situation raises concerns about the broader impact on travel and tourism, with many fearing that without immediate improvements, summer holidays could be marred by widespread disruptions and financial losses for consumers.
