The European aviation sector has called on Brussels for urgent flexibility, warning that the EES implementation could cause queues of up to 4 hours during the summer months.
ACI EUROPE, A4E and IATA have called on the European Commission for urgent flexibility, warning that the Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) could cause waiting times exceeding 4 hours at airports during the summer season.
Critical Letter from Airports and Airlines to Brussels
Brussels, 11 February 2026 – Three major organisations of the European aviation sector, ACI EUROPE (Airports Council International), A4E (Airlines for Europe) and IATA (International Air Transport Association), stated that the implementation of the Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) continues to cause serious delays for passengers.
In their letter to EU Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner, the organisations warned that serious operational disruptions could occur during the busiest period of the summer season.
Waiting Times Exceeding 2 Hours
Under the current phased implementation, 35 percent of third-country nationals entering the Schengen area must be registered in the EES system. Sector representatives stated that this process has led to waiting times of up to 2 hours at border control points in some airports.
Three Critical Problems
The letter listed three main problems increasing EES-related delays:
- Chronic shortage of border control personnel
- Unresolved technical issues in border automation systems
- Limited use of the Frontex pre-registration application by Schengen countries
It was stated that if these issues are not resolved, mandatory EES registrations at all border crossing points could lead to waiting times of 4 hours or more, especially in July and August.
Debate on the Suspension Mechanism
Aviation sector representatives requested confirmation from the European Commission that Schengen member states retain the authority to partially or fully suspend the EES implementation until the end of October 2026.
In line with the phased approach envisaged under Regulation 2025/1534, it was noted that suspension mechanisms may not be used after early July. The sector emphasised that there remains uncertainty about whether the necessary flexibility can be ensured within the framework of the Schengen Borders Code.
“There Is a Disconnect Between Perception and Reality”
ACI EUROPE Director General Olivier Jankovec, A4E Managing Director Ourania Georgoutsakou and IATA Senior Vice President for External Affairs Thomas Reynaert said in a joint statement:
“There is a complete disconnect between the perception of EU institutions that the EES is working well and the reality experienced by non-EU travellers facing major delays and inconvenience. This situation must end immediately. We must take into account the fact that traffic at European airports doubles during the summer months. The EES implementation must have the flexibility to adapt to operational realities. This is critical for the success of the system and for maintaining the EU’s reputation as an efficient and attractive destination.”
