EU’s New EES System May Cause Airport Delays

Planning a trip to Europe soon? You might want to add a little extra buffer time to your travel plans. The European Union has rolled out a new system called the Entry/Exit System (EES), and it could mean longer queues at some of your favorite European airports.

What is the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The EES officially began its rollout on October 12th. This new system applies to travelers from non-EU countries who are visiting the 29 participating European nations for short stays. It requires visitors to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial scans, along with their entry and exit dates and places.

The goal is to streamline border control and enhance security. However, the implementation process might lead to some initial hiccups, especially at airports that handle a high volume of passengers.

Airports to Watch For Potential Delays

Reports suggest that several airports could experience increased congestion due to the EES. Travelers heading to or from these hubs might want to plan accordingly:

• Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (France)
• Faro International Airport (Portugal)
• Palma de Mallorca Airport (Spain)
• Heraklion International Airport in Crete (Greece)
• Milan Malpensa Airport (Italy) – particularly early afternoon arrivals
• Airports serving Frankfurt (Germany)
• Airports serving Amsterdam (Netherlands)

Early morning arrivals seem to be particularly susceptible to congestion at some of these locations. The EES is expected to be fully implemented across the EU by April 2026.

Tips for Navigating the New System

Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of Advantage Travel Partnership, advises travelers to give themselves ample time. “Make sure, where possible, you’re leaving yourself between three and four hours from the point of entry,” she told the BBC. This extra time can help mitigate frustration if bottlenecks occur.

While the EES aims to improve travel efficiency in the long run, the initial rollout phase might require a bit more patience from travelers. Being prepared and allowing extra time can make a big difference in ensuring a smoother journey.