Key facts
- Nine European countries have jointly urged the EU to extend temporary flexibility for border checks under the new Entry/Exit System (EES).
- The countries expressed 'serious and legitimate concern' that the bloc is not ready for full implementation of the EES.
- Airlines and airports have also voiced criticism, warning of unacceptable border queues and potential disruption.
- The EES involves collecting travellers' biometric data, including fingerprints and facial scans.
- The European Commission stated it is in contact with member states experiencing difficulties.
Nine European nations, including France, Germany, and Italy, have formally requested the European Union extend temporary flexibility measures for the new Entry/Exit System (EES) border checks. The countries warned in a joint letter that the bloc is not adequately prepared for the full implementation of the system, citing significant difficulties encountered during initial rollouts.
The signatories expressed "serious and legitimate concern" that the scheduled end of the partial suspension mechanism on September 6 could lead to substantial disruption. They are advocating for member states to retain the capability to temporarily suspend the collection of biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial scans, to alleviate congestion at border crossings.
This plea from the member states is echoed by the aviation industry. EasyJet's chief executive, Kenton Jarvis, described recent border queues as "completely unacceptable" and called for a review and extension of flexibility measures. Alexander Zinell, CEO of Fraport Greece, which manages 14 Greek airports, stated that the current emergency suspension mechanisms are the only thing preventing the system from collapsing and that the system itself needs an overhaul.
A spokesperson for the European Commission, Markus Lammert, acknowledged the concerns and stated that the Commission is in "close and constructive contact" with the "few member states" experiencing issues. The Commission welcomed the countries' "explicit commitment" to the full implementation of the EES.