The European Union introduced its Entry/Exit System (EES) in October 2025 to modernize non-EU traveler processing at Schengen external borders. The system digitizes border control by replacing manual passport stamping with biometric data capture, including facial images and fingerprints. Full deployment at airports across 29 participating European countries was targeted for spring 2026, with mandatory biometric checks implemented by August 2026.
Phased Rollout and Operational Challenges
eu-LISA, the EU agency managing the EES IT infrastructure, oversees data operations while national border agencies conduct biometric enrolment. During the phased rollout, manual passport stamping remains in use alongside digital biometric registration. This dual process requires border officers
to operate multiple systems and perform repetitive checks, creating inefficiencies and slower passenger throughput. Infrastructure variance and staffing differences across airports further contribute to inconsistent processing speeds.
Passenger Queues and Travel Delays Reported
Since the mandatory biometric checks began in August 2026, several major European airports have reported significant passenger queues. Early 2026 reports from travel media indicated wait times of up to two hours during busy periods, particularly affecting new non-EU travelers completing fingerprint and facial scan enrolment. Passengers have experienced extended lines at passport control, with some missing onward flight connections due to processing bottlenecks. Delays also vary by airport layout and EES deployment
progress.
Warnings from Aviation and Airport Operators
European airline and airport associations have warned that border control staffing and infrastructure have not kept pace with the technical demands of the new biometric system. They cautioned that if full biometric registration is enforced for all travelers during peak summer months, queues lasting several hours could occur at major hubs. These bodies have highlighted technology issues, limited kiosk numbers, and the need for manual assistance especially for families and elderly travelers unfamiliar with self-service systems.
Travel Advice and System Flexibility
Governmental and industry bodies advise passengers to allow extra time at border control, arrive early, and consult terminal-specific information due to slower processing
times. The European Parliament notes that member states have authority to temporarily lower biometric enrolment percentages during periods of congestion to reduce queue lengths. Travel operators and airports have appealed to the European Commission and national governments to utilize these measures to manage passenger flow effectively.
Impact on Land Borders and Lessons for Airports
Congestion linked to the EES has also affected land border crossings, such as the Croatia–Serbia border where motorists faced kilometer-long queues and multi-hour waits in summer 2026. The unpredictable arrival patterns of vehicles necessitate infrastructure upgrades and operational adjustments, including expanded lanes and waiting areas. Insights from these land border challenges could inform how
airports optimize biometric passenger flows as the system reaches full maturity.
