Travelers Face Hours Long Waits at European Airports Due to New Border System, Get the Details Here

The new Entry-Exit System, which is now implemented by the European Union, is causing many problems for travelers, especially in major airports in Europe. The longest waiting times, which may last up to three hours, have led to the rising discontent of tourists. The Airports Council International Europe has expressed its concern over the problems created by the Entry-Exit System, which may pose a threat to the safety of travelers. The new entry and exit system for non-EU nationals has been operational since October 12, 2025. The main objective of the system is to improve the security level by monitoring the entry and exit of non-EU foreigners.
The Struggles of Implementing EES and Its Impact on Travelers
The EES requires non-EU nationals to have their fingerprints and photographs taken at the border, a process designed to improve security and streamline the entry process. However, the system has faced significant operational issues, including frequent system failures and difficulties with self-service kiosks and automated border control gates. This has led to lengthy delays and increased congestion at airports in countries such as France, Germany, Greece, Portugal, Spain, and Italy—destinations that are popular for international tourists.
The ACI Europe, a group that represents major airports, has called for urgent action from the European Commission and Schengen member states to address these operational failures before the system is expanded further in January 2026. Olivier Jankovec, the Director General of ACI Europe, emphasized that while the EES is crucial for security, it should not come at the expense of traveler safety and convenience. “The system must be stable and efficient to avoid chaos at airports, especially as the number of international travelers increases during the holiday season,” he said.
Operational Issues: System Failures and Delays at Major Airports
The problems with the EES system are not limited to minor glitches. Travelers have reported wait times of up to three hours at some of Europe’s busiest airports, particularly during peak travel periods. Long lines and delayed processing times are causing frustration, and many passengers are being left stranded at customs, missing connections or facing additional stress upon arrival.
The failure of self-service kiosks and border control gates has added to the confusion, making it even harder for passengers to navigate the system efficiently. In the face of these problems, the implementation of the EES system is starting to feel like a step backward rather than a leap forward, especially given the growing pressure on airports to handle higher volumes of passengers during busy travel seasons.
The Implications for European Tourism: Declining Visitor Satisfaction
The impact of these delays extends beyond the airports themselves. European tourism, which has already been struggling to recover fully from the COVID-19 pandemic, faces additional challenges in attracting international visitors. With lengthy delays and operational issues at key airports, tourists may begin to reconsider their travel plans to the region.
The frustration felt by travelers is compounded by the perception that the EU is not fully prepared for the system’s rollout. Many tourists are now faced with the dilemma of whether they want to endure long waits and uncertainty upon arrival in Europe, especially when alternative destinations that are less bureaucratic and more welcoming are available.
The Urgent Need for Action and Flexibility in the EES Rollout
ACI Europe has called for immediate intervention from the European Commission and Schengen member states to address these issues before the EES system is expanded to include a wider pool of travelers. “If the current operational issues cannot be addressed and the system stabilized by early January, we will need swift action from the European Commission to allow additional flexibility in its rollout,” said Jankovec.
In particular, ACI Europe has suggested that the European Commission provide additional flexibility, including more border guards at peak times, adjustments to the self-service systems, and a clearer communication strategy for travelers about the changes. These actions would help mitigate some of the current challenges and ensure that the EES can be implemented effectively without causing chaos at airports.
The Importance of a Smooth Travel Experience for Tourists
For many international tourists, the ease of entry into a destination is one of the most important factors when deciding where to travel. Tourism is a highly competitive industry, and any hurdles—whether in the form of visa delays, customs issues, or immigration bottlenecks—can negatively impact a destination’s attractiveness. The introduction of the EES system, while essential for security, should not come at the expense of a smooth and welcoming travel experience.
The European tourism industry, which depends heavily on international visitors, especially during peak seasons, needs to balance security concerns with efficiency and customer satisfaction. By addressing the current issues with the EES system and providing clear, transparent solutions, the European Union can ensure that travelers continue to visit Europe without fear of long waits and confusion at border control.
The Road Ahead: Will the EES System Impact Europe’s Global Appeal?
As the EES system continues to roll out across Europe, the immediate future of tourism to the region depends on how effectively the European Union can resolve the operational issues that have emerged. The system’s purpose is clear: to increase security, streamline border entry, and improve immigration procedures. However, if it continues to cause significant delays and frustrations, it could result in a decline in international tourism, especially from markets where travelers have other options for their vacations.
For the sake of European tourism and the broader global appeal of the region, it is essential that the European Union and its member states act swiftly to resolve the current issues with the EES system. Tourists, after all, seek experiences that are both enjoyable and hassle-free, and any barriers to smooth travel will likely discourage future visitors.
Enhancing the Travel Experience in Europe
Although the new Entry-Exit System implemented in the EU aims to enhance security and facilitate the immigration process for visitors, the current system poses considerable difficulties for those who travel through the airports. With the continued importance of tourism to the European economic ecosystem, the solution to the current system’s difficulties will be crucial for Europe to retain its competitiveness in the international tourist market. An adaptive and flexible strategy to address the current issues will ensure the continued attractiveness of European airports for international visitors.
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