Airlines and airports are urging the European Union to temporarily halt its newly implemented biometric border check system during the height of the summer travel season. They warn that the system is causing significant delays and lengthy queues, with some travelers waiting up to five hours at border controls. These delays have led to flights departing with empty seats, as passengers remain stuck in lines, and in some instances, flights have been postponed to accommodate those delayed by the checks.

The biometric system, introduced in phases since October, mandates non-EU travelers to submit fingerprints and facial images upon entering the EU. However, the rollout has encountered operational difficulties at airports and border checkpoints, prompting industry groups to call for a temporary suspension of the checks in July and August, particularly when passenger volumes surpass the capacity of border control facilities.

Several countries have already faced challenges with the system’s implementation, resulting in some locations reducing or temporarily halting biometric checks to avoid significant disruptions during the busy travel season. Industry representatives caution that persistent delays could harm Europe’s tourism industry and damage its international travel reputation, particularly as airports brace for millions more travelers over the summer months.

They emphasize the need for increased staffing, enhanced technology, and dependable automated systems to ensure that biometric checks can be conducted efficiently without causing major disruptions. Until such improvements are in place, airlines and airports are advocating for a pause in the system to prevent further travel chaos and inconvenience to passengers.