The EES requires non-EU citizens to register biometric information—this includes scanning passports, providing fingerprints, and taking facial images—at border crossings. The system was fully operational from April 10, 2026, after being phased in since October 12, 2025. Ryanair reported that due to these passport control delays on April 16, a number of passengers missed their flight from Milan to Manchester.

As a result of the EES implementation, travelers now face longer wait times at busy airports. Ryanair has advised customers to arrive early, anticipating queues that could extend significantly. The time taken to complete EES registration is estimated at just 1-2 minutes per person; however, delays in processing can lead to much longer wait times during peak travel periods.

This situation is not unique to Italy. Greece has already paused its rollout of the EES due to considerable delays experienced there as well. Such complications raise questions about the readiness of the EES system across various Schengen Area countries, which include 27 nations—excluding the UK and Cyprus.

Despite these challenges, the EES aims to replace manual passport stamping and effectively track visa-free limits for travelers entering the EU. Registration is free and lasts for three years before re-registration is necessary. However, British passport holders are currently exempt from biometric registration at Greek border crossing points.

Travelers are urged to stay informed about potential delays as systems continue to adapt. While many anticipate improvements in processing times over the coming months, the initial implementation phase has proven problematic.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding how these ongoing issues may affect future travel plans or if further adjustments will be made to streamline border control processes. As airlines like Ryanair navigate these new regulations, passenger experiences may vary widely depending on location and timing.

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The delays were primarily caused by the implementation of the European Entry / Exit System (EES), which became fully operational just two days prior, on April 10, 2026. This new system requires biometric registration for travelers, leading to longer than usual waiting times at passport control. Passengers reported severe congestion, with queues stretching across terminal halls, and many spent more time waiting in line than in the air.

Among those affected was a family from Merseyside, whose son, Fredrik, aged 5, was among the stranded passengers. They arrived at Milan Linate Airport with ample time, reaching their gate by 9:30 AM, only to be denied entry through passport control. “We got to the airport with more than enough time, and got to our gate at 9.30am, but we were totally refused entry through passport control,” said Vicky Chapman, a member of the family.

In total, one flight took off without its passengers, leaving them to navigate the chaos of the airport. Reports indicated that passengers spent approximately three hours seeking assistance, while easyJet acknowledged that the delays were beyond its control and apologized for the inconvenience. An easyJet spokesperson stated, “We are aware that some passengers departing from Milan Linate today experienced longer than usual waiting times at passport control and we advised customers due to fly to allow additional time to make their way through the airport.”

The UK government had previously warned travelers to the Schengen area to expect longer wait times at border control due to the EES. The Foreign Office also cautioned that travelers may need to provide biometric information when leaving the Schengen area, stating, “You may need to provide either your fingerprint or photo when you leave the Schengen area.” This new requirement has added to the complexity and frustration for travelers.

In response to the situation, easyJet offered free flight transfers to those who missed their flights due to the border delays. However, missed flights due to border control queues are often classified as extraordinary circumstances, which can limit compensation options for affected passengers. As a result, many are left uncertain about their rights and the next steps they can take.

As the situation continues to unfold, passengers are advised to arrive earlier than usual for flights requiring passport checks. The European Union’s enhanced border checks are likely to remain in place, and further delays may be expected as travelers adjust to the new system. Details remain unconfirmed regarding how long these issues may persist, but the impact on travel plans is already evident.

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