The European Union's new Entry Exit System (EES) has reportedly tripled the time required for travelers to pass through passport control at some airports, according to an official at Rome's main airport. The system, which requires non-EU citizens entering the Schengen area to register fingerprints and a photo, has been phased in since October and checks this information upon departure.
Ryanair has cautioned passengers traveling to Europe this summer to anticipate extended waits, attributing the delays to what the airline described as a "failed EES rollout." The budget carrier advised UK passengers to "allow extra time for their journey and be prepared for extended waits at passport control."
While a spokesperson for the European Commission (EC) stated that disruption has been limited in most EU airports and that the EC will continue to support member states in the system's implementation, reports from airports suggest otherwise. Border police at Portugal's Faro airport noted that the EES technology experienced bugs, though they expressed confidence that any resulting queues would diminish quickly.
Some European airports have experienced queues lasting for hours, with passengers reportedly missing flights. In Rome, travelers shared their experiences with the new system. The EES mandates that non-EU citizens entering the 29-country Schengen area register biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial images, typically through automated kiosks or with border officers for younger travelers.
The implementation of the EES aims to enhance border security and streamline the process for frequent travelers by creating a digital record of entries and exits. However, the initial rollout has presented challenges for both travelers and airport authorities, leading to significant backlogs and increased processing times.