Ryanair has issued a stark warning about potential "queue chaos" at European airports this summer, blaming the new Entry/Exit System (EES) fingerprint checks for causing major disruptions. Europe's largest airline urged the European Commission to suspend the system during the peak holiday season, arguing that passengers should not be treated as "guinea pigs" for a half-baked border control process. The warning comes as airports in Spain, Italy, Poland, and France are already reporting significant congestion.
What Is the EES and Why Is It Causing Problems?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated border control system designed to register non-EU travelers entering and leaving the Schengen zone. It requires travelers to provide fingerprints and a facial image upon first entry, with subsequent verifications at each border crossing. Although the system was conceptualized over a decade ago to enhance security and track overstays, its rollout has been plagued by delays and technical challenges.
According to the European Commission, the EES has processed over 100 million entries and exits so far, but it is still not fully implemented in several key countries, including France, Italy, and Greece. The system was officially launched in October 2024, but member states were given flexibility to opt out while testing infrastructure. This fragmented implementation has left airports and airlines scrambling to adapt.
Ryanair's Specific Concerns
Ryanair's chief operating officer, Neal McMahon, stated that the current infrastructure is "not ready to manage the high passenger volumes expected" from mid-July. The airline has identified seven airports already experiencing major disruptions:
- Tenerife South (Spain)
- Palma (Spain)
- Alicante (Spain)
- Málaga (Spain)
- Milan Bergamo (Italy)
- Krakow (Poland)
- Paris Beauvais (France)
These airports are seeing long queues for fingerprinting, leading to missed flights and increased stress for families. Ryanair, along with industry groups Airlines for Europe and Airports Council International, has called for an immediate suspension of the EES checks "at least throughout July and August," with some advocating for a full-year delay until summer 2025.
EU's Response and Mitigation Measures
The European Commission has responded by inviting the air industry to an urgent meeting scheduled for next Tuesday to address these concerns. In a statement, EU officials noted that airports can suspend EES checks at any time during July and August if queues become unmanageable. They also pledged to deploy additional border support staff if needed, as was done recently at Lisbon airport after a request for help.
Officials claim that the average EES check takes only 70 seconds and that most airports are not experiencing major issues. However, critics argue that this average masks the reality of peak-hour bottlenecks, especially at smaller airports with limited infrastructure. The EU has recorded more than 100 million EES entries and exits out of an estimated 200 to 300 million annual border crossings, indicating that the system is still far from fully operational.
Impact on Travelers and the Industry
For passengers, the immediate risk is long wait times at security and border control, potentially causing missed flights and disrupted holiday plans. Families with young children, elderly travelers, and those with tight connections are particularly vulnerable. The travel industry, already recovering from pandemic-era disruptions, faces another blow if the EES leads to widespread delays and negative customer experiences.
Ryanair has advised passengers to arrive at airports at least three hours early for flights to Schengen countries, and to ensure they have all necessary documentation ready. The airline also recommends using mobile boarding passes and checking in online to minimize time spent at the airport.
FAQ: Entry/Exit System (EES) Fingerprint Checks
What is the EES and who does it apply to?
The EES is an automated system that registers non-EU travelers entering and exiting the Schengen area. It applies to citizens of countries outside the EU, including the UK, US, Canada, and Australia. EU citizens and residents are exempt.
How long does the fingerprint check take?
According to the European Commission, the average check takes about 70 seconds. However, during peak travel times, queues can build up significantly, especially at airports with limited EES kiosks or staff.
Can I avoid the fingerprint checks?
No, the checks are mandatory for all non-EU travelers upon first entry into the Schengen zone. However, after the initial registration, subsequent entries and exits only require fingerprint or facial image verification, which is quicker. Travelers are advised to plan extra time at border control.
