New EU entry-exit system causing up to three-hour delays, say airports

"Olivier Jankovec, director of the ACI European division, stated that the current situation at border checks is going to be simply unmanageable during peak summer months, with queueing times already increasing as traffic builds up."

"The ACI has requested the power to fully suspend the new checks whenever excessive waiting times at border control become unmanageable, highlighting the urgent need for a solution to the delays."

"A spokesperson for the European Commission noted that the system is working very well in the majority of member states, with an average passenger registration time of 70 seconds, despite claims from the ACI of delays up to five minutes."

European airports are experiencing severe delays at border checks, with waits of up to three hours reported. The new entry-exit system (EES) requires non-EU passengers to register personal information and biometrics. This system, effective in Schengen countries, has led to long queues, particularly during peak travel times. Airport representatives have requested the ability to suspend EES registration during excessive wait times. The European Commission claims the system is functioning well, with average registration times reported at 70 seconds, despite claims of longer delays from the Airports Council International.

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