The European Union’s new Entry/Exit System or EES has been transforming travel. But at the same time, it’s also causing unease. In fact, major airports already warn that the launch could cause summer gridlock.
Currently, Paris airport operators are urging Brussels to suspend the rollout during peak travel months. At the same time, airlines and airport groups note that the technology isn’t ready yet for full deployment.
What the EES Does
Simply put, the EES replaces manual passport stamps with a centralized biometric database. Specifically, it records fingerprints and facial images of non-EU travelers entering or leaving the Schengen Area.
Moreover, the system tracks short-stay visitors under the 90-day limit within 180 days. As a result, authorities can automatically detect overstays and identity fraud.
Notably, EU officials say the system strengthens border security and reduces document manipulation. In addition, they argue it modernizes border checks across 29 participating countries.
Correspondingly, travelers must register biometric data during their first post-launch entry. After that, the system creates a digital record for future crossings.
EES Catches 4,000 Overstayers
Recently, officials reported that the system registered roughly 17 million travelers and nearly 30 million crossings within its first months. Notably, it flagged around 4,000 people for overstaying permitted limits.
Authorities also identified cases of travelers using multiple passports to bypass rules. Furthermore, officials reported at least one trafficking victim detected through system alerts.
Supporters say these numbers prove the database works. “The EES strengthens security and increases efficiency for travelers,” the European Council said when announcing the launch.
However, critics argue that early enforcement gains do not offset operational strain.
Paris Calls for EES Pause
Aéroports de Paris, which operates Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports, has asked EU authorities to suspend the EES rollout during the summer.
Executives warn that border processing times could surge during peak travel weeks. Consequently, long lines could spill into terminals and disrupt flight schedules.
At the same time, industry groups including Airlines for Europe and ACI Europe also back the appeal. In particular, they argue that infrastructure upgrades and staff training remain incomplete.
Moreover, they fear reputational damage if travelers face multi-hour waits in Europe’s busiest gateways.
Meanwhile, travel industry representatives say summer traffic volumes leave little room for error. Therefore, even small technical delays could multiply quickly.
Tech Issues Delay EES Checks
Several airports have reported longer processing times since the phased launch began. In fact, in some locations, checks reportedly take up to 70% longer than before.
Correspondingly, border officers must guide first-time travelers through biometric enrollment procedures. Meanwhile, self-service kiosks sometimes require manual intervention.
As a result, airports have installed new scanners and data terminals. Yet technical glitches and inconsistent connectivity have slowed throughput at certain checkpoints.
Recently, Lisbon Airport temporarily suspended EES processing after severe bottlenecks. As a result, authorities reverted to manual checks to ease congestion.
Meanwhile, border controls at Eurotunnel and the Port of Dover have also faced delays due to technological challenges. Nevertheless, Eurotunnel has confirmed that the necessary infrastructure are at Folkestone and are “ready to operate as soon as we receive the go ahead from the French authorities”.
Overall, critics say the rollout coincides with record passenger numbers. Therefore, even minor inefficiencies can escalate quickly.
EES Timeline, Political Pressure
The EU began phasing in the EES in late 2025. For now, officials aim for full implementation by April 10, 2026.
Under current plans, passport stamping will end once the system becomes fully operational. However, member states can apply temporary flexibility during exceptional surges.
Correspondingly, any broad suspension would require European Commission approval. Consequently, the debate now centers on balancing readiness with political momentum.
In response, Security advocates argue that delays would weaken enforcement credibility. On the other hand, airport operators insist that rushed implementation risks chaos.
Impact on Travelers
For travelers, the most visible change is biometric registration at entry. First-time EES users must provide fingerprints and pose for a facial scan.
Although the process takes only minutes per passenger, cumulative delays can stretch lines considerably. In addition, families and elderly travelers may need assistance.
Airlines warn that missed departure slots could ripple across networks. Therefore, border congestion could disrupt flights beyond the Schengen Area.
Still, supporters say processing times should stabilize once most travelers complete initial enrollment. Over time, repeat visitors will move faster through automated gates.
EES at a Crossroads
Overall, the EES represents one of Europe’s largest digital border upgrades in decades. Notably, its early statistics demonstrate tangible enforcement results.
Yet implementation friction highlights the complexity of continent-wide technology projects. Moreover, political pressure is mounting as summer approaches.
In response, Paris airport leaders argue that postponement would protect travelers and operations. Meanwhile, EU officials emphasize security gains and modernization goals.
The coming months will test whether Europe can reconcile both priorities. Ultimately, the decision may shape traveler confidence across the region.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
