EU Border Rules Cause Travel Chaos Ahead of Summer Peak Season

European Airlines and Airports Urge Flexibility Amid Severe Delays at EU Borders

A joint letter from top European airport and airline representatives has expressed concern over the impact of the EU’s new digital border check system, known as the Entry/Exit System (EES), on travel. The system, which records traveller information and biometric data, has been blamed for severe delays and operational disruptions.

According to the letter, published online on Wednesday, passengers are facing lengthy queues, with some reports suggesting five-hour wait times at airports. This has led to departure gates closing prematurely, resulting in planes departing without all their passengers on board.

Industry representatives have warned that the current implementation of the EES is creating unsustainable pressure on border authorities, airports, and airlines. They urge European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to intervene immediately to prevent further deterioration during the peak summer travel season.

The letter highlights the significant increase in passenger numbers expected at European airports in July and August, with 40 million more passengers anticipated than in the previous two months. The industry groups stress that without additional flexibility, existing challenges will intensify, putting the reputation of the EU and European tourism at risk.

Until the stability of the EES is ensured and adequate staffing levels are in place, EU member states should be granted the flexibility to suspend the system when passenger numbers exceed operational capacity, according to the letter. The World Travel and Tourism Council has endorsed this call, warning that delays could put up to 41 million arrivals and $45.4 billion in visitor spending at risk.

The European Commission has not yet responded to a request for comment on the matter.

Source: Al Jazeera