Europe’s airports have warned that the European Union’s new digital entry‑exit system could cause chaos at border crossings, with waiting times stretching to three hours and potential security risks if the rollout continues as planned.
The Brussels‑based Airports Council International Europe said Thursday that since the system began phased implementation in October, border control times have risen by 70%.
The scheme requires non‑EU travelers to undergo fingerprint and facial scans in addition to passport stamping.
Only about 10% of passengers are currently subject to the digital checks, but that figure is due to rise to 35% on Jan. 9, 2026.
ACI Europe Director General Olivier Jankovec said even at 10% the system has produced serious delays, warning that a higher rate could trigger “systemic breakdowns and security risks.”
France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Portugal and Spain have been hardest hit, according to ACI data. The group is urging the EU to extend the transition period beyond April 9, 2026.
Airport officials cited database outages, malfunctioning biometric kiosks, the lack of a pre‑registration app and staffing shortages as key problems. The European Commission has not yet issued a formal response.
