Airports
Doubts Raised over EU Border Control Rule Changes
Requirements apply to some but not all business aircraft flights

Implementation of the European Union’s new digital border control process appears to be taking longer than anticipated, with some airports delaying the use of technology to collect biometric data for non-EU visitors to the Schengen Area. Rollout of the Entry/Exit System (EES) process started in October and is supposed to be fully operational in 29 states by April 10.

From January 16, the European Commission (EC) has expected at least 35% of non-EU travelers to be using the system, which requires an initial enrollment using machines in airport border control areas. However, several airports, including Lisbon in Portugal, have suspended implementation after experiencing severe delays in processing airline passengers. The rules apply to some business aircraft flights.