European airlines and airports are urging the EU to halt its new biometric border check system during the peak summer travel season, citing significant disruptions and long queues. According to industry reports, some travelers are experiencing wait times of up to five hours at border controls, resulting in flights departing with empty seats as passengers remain stuck in lines. In response to these delays, some airlines have been forced to postpone flights until passengers can complete the biometric checks.
Since its phased introduction in October, the system requires non-EU visitors to provide fingerprints and facial images when entering the European bloc. However, the rollout has encountered operational challenges, leading to calls for the European Commission to temporarily suspend the checks in July and August whenever passenger numbers surpass border control capacities.
Several countries are already grappling with issues related to the implementation of these checks, with some opting to reduce or temporarily halt them to avoid significant disruptions during the busy travel period. Representatives from the airline and airport sectors warn that ongoing delays could harm Europe’s tourism industry and its reputation for international travel, as airports brace for an influx of millions of passengers over the summer months.
The industry groups emphasize the need for additional staffing, enhanced technology, and dependable automated systems to ensure the biometric checks can function smoothly without causing substantial delays. The call for a temporary suspension aims to mitigate disruptions and maintain efficient travel during one of the busiest times of the year.