Scottish travellers could face six-hour queues at EU border control this summer, warns the International Air Transport Association. The new Entry/Exit System (EES) in the Schengen area is experiencing operational challenges, leading to potential bottlenecks at major airports and ports.
EES Rollout Causes Delays
The digital border control system, fully rolled out since April 10, requires first-time users to register fingerprints and facial images. Many Scots taking their first holiday of the year will need to register, causing delays.
Returning visitors with registered details should pass quickly, but concerns remain about the system's ability to handle peak volumes. European border officials acknowledge a lengthy transition period, with Frontex suggesting it may take several seasons for procedures to run smoothly.
Economic Impact Concerns
Tourism bodies worry about the economic impact of lengthy queues. Surveys indicate long-haul travellers might reconsider trips to Europe if they face hours in border lines. Some travellers have already missed flights due to delays at passport control.
Airlines urge passengers to arrive earlier, with WizzAir advising three hours before departure. Industry groups call for additional staff, better public information, and more automated processing.
While passengers understand the scheme's purpose, frustrations mount. Industry leaders describe this as a "complex transition," but the EES is key to EU border management, with the ETIAS programme set to launch in autumn.
