The EU's New Border Control System: A Recipe for Long Airport Queues?
The EU's digital Entry Exit System (EES) is set to revolutionize border control, but at what cost? This new system, which aims to replace traditional ink stamps on passports, has already sparked concerns about long airport queues and potential travel disruptions.
Here's the lowdown:
- Registration Process: Non-EU citizens will need to register their fingerprints, a photo, and have their passports scanned the first time they enter the Schengen free-movement zone. This registration lasts for three years.
- Air Travel Impact: Air travelers will encounter this process upon arrival at European airports, typically using automated machines or kiosks. Their details will be verified for future entries.
- Gradual Rollout: The system is being gradually introduced, starting in October. Currently, half of border points are operational, and at least a third of non-EU passengers are using it.
But here's where it gets controversial...
- Bottlenecks and Delays: Julia Lo Bue-Said, from the travel agent network Advantage Partnership, warns that the new system has created even more bottlenecks and pinch points in places that were already challenged. This is supported by Olivier Jankovec, director general of Airports Council International Europe, who reports that passenger processing time at border control has increased by "four to five times" under EES, with people waiting up to two hours.
- Equipment and Staff Shortages: Jankovec highlights problems like insufficient border staff and malfunctioning machines, which are exacerbating the situation. He predicts that the situation will worsen during peak travel periods like Easter and summer.
- Waiting Times: Without improvements in equipment and border guard numbers, Jankovec warns of five-to-six-hour waiting times. This is a stark reminder of the potential challenges ahead.
Despite these concerns, the European Commission Spokesperson for Internal Affairs, Markus Lammert, insists that the system has operated "largely without issues" and that member states will continue to work on improvements. From April 10th, EES is set to be in use at every border point for every eligible passenger.
However, there's a catch...
Temporary Suspensions: Countries can partially suspend EES operations during the summer, until September, if necessary. This is to manage "unsustainable" situations at border control, according to Jankovec. Without these suspensions, the situation could become even more dire.
ABTA's Concerns: The travel association ABTA highlights that border authorities are underutilizing their ability to reduce checks when needed, leading to passenger delays. They emphasize the need for better planning by destinations and border authorities for peak travel periods.
So, what's the takeaway?
- Prepare for Long Waits: Julia Lo Bue-Said advises travelers to come prepared for long waits, especially during peak times. "Plan for the worst," she says, "and make sure you have refreshments and activities for [small children]."
The EU's new border control system is a complex issue, and it's clear that further improvements are needed to ensure a smooth travel experience. As the system rolls out, it's crucial to address the concerns raised by industry experts and travelers alike to avoid unnecessary delays and frustration.
