Full Breakdown
Disruption at Milan Airport Due to EU's New Entry-Exit System
4/13/2026, 10:06:03 PM
Overview of the Incident
A significant disruption occurred at Milan's Linate Airport on Sunday, affecting over 100 passengers who missed their EasyJet flight to Manchester due to extensive delays at passport control. The delays were attributed to the European Union's newly implemented Entry-Exit System (EES), which requires biometric data collection from non-EU travelers, including Britons. Passengers reported waiting for hours in long queues, leading to distressing situations, including fainting and vomiting.
Background on the Entry-Exit System
The EES was officially launched on April 10, 2023, and is designed to enhance border security by requiring non-EU nationals to provide fingerprints and facial recognition data upon entry and exit from the Schengen Area. This system replaces the traditional passport stamping process and aims to streamline border control. However, initial reports indicate that the rollout has faced significant operational challenges, resulting in long wait times at various European airports.
Passenger Experiences
Passengers like Carol Boon and Max Hume described their experiences as "nightmarish," with Boon stating that the situation was "very stressful," and Hume expressing frustration over spending £1,800 to secure a new flight after missing his original one. Many travelers reported that despite arriving at the airport well in advance, they were not informed of their gate assignments until it was too late. Hume criticized EasyJet for offering inadequate compensation, stating, "EasyJet offered us £19 and a flight on Thursday, but we would have had to pay £300."
Airline and Official Responses
EasyJet acknowledged the delays, attributing them to factors outside their control and urging border authorities to utilize the flexibilities permitted under the EES to alleviate waiting times. An EasyJet spokesperson stated, "We continue to urge border authorities to ensure they make full and effective use of the permitted flexibilities for as long as needed while EES is implemented." However, passengers felt abandoned, with Boon remarking on the poor treatment from airline representatives.
Criticism of the EES Implementation
Critics of the EES have pointed to various issues, including staffing shortages, technical failures, and inconsistent application of the system across different airports. Some travelers reported that staff abandoned biometric checks in favor of traditional passport stamping due to overwhelming queues. Travel experts have suggested that the requirement for all passengers to use EES kiosks, regardless of prior registration, creates unnecessary bottlenecks.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While EasyJet and other airlines have indicated that they are working to address the issues caused by the EES, reports from passengers highlight a lack of effective communication and support during the crisis. The European Commission has allowed for the temporary suspension of EES checks during peak times to mitigate delays, but the effectiveness of this measure remains to be seen.
Conclusion
The rollout of the EU's Entry-Exit System has led to significant disruptions at Milan's Linate Airport, leaving many passengers stranded and frustrated. As the system continues to be implemented across Europe, stakeholders are urged to address the operational challenges to ensure smoother travel experiences for non-EU nationals.
