Flying to Europe? Prepare for Potential Airport Delays
Standard flight procedures in Europe have become more complex due to the new EES border control system. Technical glitches and staffing shortages are causing unpredictable queues, putting travelers at risk of missing flights. Here is how to prepare for your trip to minimize risks.
The new border control system in Europe, which requires fingerprints and facial recognition, is creating significant challenges for travelers. In many cases, the process can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, and due to technical malfunctions and staff shortages, airports are experiencing massive queues.
The situation is exacerbated by a lack of consistency between different airports, making waiting times unpredictable. Senior citizens and children under 12 are particularly susceptible to prolonged waits. Instead of the familiar passport stamp, the new EES (Entry/Exit System), which officially launched in April, requires passengers to interact with automated kiosks.
Unpredictability and Risks
Traveler experiences this summer show that passing through passport control has become a gamble. Even within the same trip, the experience can vary drastically from one airport to another. For instance, while passengers in Lisbon are advised to arrive 3–4 hours before their flight, they may encounter no lines at all, whereas in Amsterdam or Frankfurt, delays have reached several hours.
Issues arise due to:
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The complexity of automated kiosks for inexperienced users.
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Technical glitches and staffing shortages.
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Biometric recognition failures, particularly for older passengers.
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Passports lacking chips, which require manual verification.
Recommendations for Travelers
To avoid complications, experts recommend allowing a significant buffer in your schedule, especially if you have a connecting flight. It is also advised not to schedule important meetings or transfers too soon after landing.
Before flying, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the EES system through official European Union resources. It is important to note that children under 12 cannot use automated gates, so families should check in advance for dedicated lanes at their destination airport. As a last resort, paid VIP escort services are available at some airports to help expedite the border control process.
