When it comes to new eu entry-exit system causing up to three-hour delays, say airports, travelers navigating European airports are facing unprecedented delays, with some reporting waits of up to three hours at border checks due to the EU's newly implemented Entry-Exit System (EES). This delay is affecting major airports across multiple countries, including France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Spain, and Greece, as confirmed by the Airports Council International (ACI).
Olivier Jankovec, the director of the ACI European division, expressed concerns about the ongoing situation, stating that the current delays are likely to worsen in the weeks ahead, especially during the busy summer travel months. In an interview with the Financial Times, he noted, "This situation, in the coming weeks and certainly over the peak summer months, is going to be simply unmanageable." As passenger traffic begins to increase, the queues at border checks are becoming alarmingly lengthy. Originally reported by The Guardian.
Understanding New EU Entry-exit System Causing Up To Three-hour Delays, Say Airports
The EES officially came into effect on April 10, 2023, across Schengen countries-25 of the EU's 27 member states, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. The system mandates that travelers from non-EU countries, including the UK, must provide their personal information and biometric data at border entry points. Although the system has been gradually rolled out since October, its full implementation has led to overwhelming delays at various airports.
Reports from the BBC indicated that over 100 passengers missed an easyJet flight from Milan to Manchester due to the extensive delays at passport control. These instances highlight the broader issues travelers are facing as they attempt to traverse European borders under the new regulations.
Concerns Raised by Airport Officials
In response to the growing concerns, airport representatives and officials from the European Commission convened on Tuesday to address the challenges posed by the EES. During this meeting, ACI representatives requested an extension of current exemptions for travelers and the ability to suspend the new checks entirely when wait times become excessive. Jankovec emphasized the need for immediate action, urging the Commission to "fully suspend EES registration whenever there are excessive waiting times at border control that are just unmanageable."
While the European Commission maintains that the system is functioning well in the majority of member states, they acknowledged that a few countries have encountered technical difficulties. A spokesperson stated that the average registration time for a passenger is around 70 seconds, although the ACI claims it can take as long as five minutes in some cases. The Commission reassured the public that they are addressing the issues identified in specific member states, emphasizing that it is ultimately up to those countries to ensure effective implementation on the ground.
Potential Supply Chain Issues Looming
As European airports grapple with the fallout from the EES, they are also preparing for potential disruptions in jet fuel supply. The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has raised alarms about possible shortages, prompting the ACI to alert EU energy and transport commissioners that the continent could face systemic shortages within three weeks. According to the International Energy Agency, Europe consumed approximately 1.6 million barrels of jet fuel daily last year, with a significant portion-about 500,000 barrels-imported, primarily from the Middle East.
Michael O'Leary, the chief executive of Ryanair, voiced strong criticism of the EES, describing it as "a shit show and a shambles" and suggesting that it serves as a punitive measure for Brexit. He has called for the EU to consider postponing the full rollout of the EES until October to alleviate the current strain on airport operations.
The European Commission has yet to formally respond to O'Leary's remarks or the growing discontent regarding the EES. As travelers continue to face long waits and missed flights, the situation remains fluid, with many hoping for a swift resolution to the ongoing delays.
As summer approaches and travel demand surges, the pressure on European airports will only intensify. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation, with many advocating for immediate changes to improve efficiency and reduce the burden on travelers.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.