News

The European Union is continuing the rollout of the biometric Schengen Entry/Exit System despite widespread delays. Airports and airlines report up to three-hour queues and call for temporary suspensions during peak times.

The EU has confirmed that biometric border controls under the Schengen Entry/Exit System will continue despite reports of queues up to three hours at airports like Rome and Paris. Airlines and airports have called for temporary suspensions to ease delays but the EU framework does not allow a blanket halt.

Qatar Airways and Hamad International Airport launched Fast Pass in July 2026, a facial recognition system linking over 700 biometric touchpoints. Eligible passengers can now use facial recognition from check-in to boarding, reducing document checks and waiting times.

On July 12, 2026, 2,575 flights were delayed and 51 cancelled across Europe, impacting key hubs from Zurich to London Heathrow. Major airlines including easyJet, Ryanair, and British Airways faced significant operational disruptions.

On July 12, 2026, FAA data showed 19 US airports under 27 delay programs, with ATL worst-hit. Thunderstorms were the leading cause across six key programs.

The FAA imposed a ground stop at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport on July 12 due to thunderstorms, halting departures until at least 5 p.m. Over 900 flight delays were reported. Passengers faced cancellations, missed connections, and rebookings.

India’s inaugural bullet train is scheduled for launch in 2027 following several years of delays. The 508-kilometer Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor is under construction at Boisar.

A fire near Stratford station prompted the evacuation of approximately 1,400 train passengers and led to the suspension of services. Major delays and cancellations affect Elizabeth Line, Greater Anglia, and London Overground routes through the station.

Deutsche Bahn has deferred the main commissioning of the Stuttgart 21 project to December 2031, extending phased openings through 2033 and increasing costs to €14.5 billion. The revised schedule was confirmed after an internal audit revealed serious deficiencies in project planning and risk management.

On July 12, 2026, European airports experienced 2,575 flight delays and 51 cancellations, with Zurich Airport most affected. Major airlines including easyJet, Ryanair, British Airways, and KLM faced widespread operational disruptions.