Overview
- The Entry/Exit System requires non‑EU visitors to submit fingerprints and a facial image at dedicated booths after security, replacing passport stamping and creating a digital record kept for years.
- Official data show the system has logged more than 66 million movements and registered over 30,000 entry refusals, and EU border agency Frontex says some member states are struggling to stabilise operations.
- Airports have reported repeated kiosk faults and re‑enrolments that have produced multi‑hour queues and isolated flight losses, including more than 100 easyJet passengers who missed a Milan Linate departure.
- Airlines and airport bodies are urging short‑term measures and some officials say member states can temporarily suspend biometric registration during peak hours to relieve queues, while Heathrow has warned passengers to allow extra time.
- Travel advisers recommend skipping checked luggage and arriving earlier than usual because EES checks take place after security, and prolonged delays risk hurting summer tourism and prompting route cuts or timetable changes.