The recent implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) is causing significant disruptions for Ryanair passengers at Milan Bergamo Airport. In fact, just days after the system became fully operational on April 10, 2026, reports surfaced of travelers missing flights due to passport control delays. This situation is not just an inconvenience; it highlights the broader implications of new border control measures in the Schengen Area.
Why are these delays occurring? The EES requires non-EU citizens to register biometric information at border crossings—this includes scanning passports, providing fingerprints, and having facial images taken. Although designed to streamline entry into the EU by replacing manual passport stamping, the reality has been anything but smooth. On April 16, several passengers missed a flight from Milan to Manchester due to these delays, underscoring the immediate impact on travel plans.
Supporting numbers reveal the scale of the problem. Approximately 30 passengers were left stranded at Milan Bergamo Airport alone, while an even larger group—122 individuals—faced similar challenges at Milan Linate due to passport control setbacks. Such figures raise questions about how effectively border systems can handle increased passenger flow, especially during peak travel times.
This context matters because it sheds light on the operational challenges faced by airports and airlines alike. Ryanair has advised customers to arrive early, anticipating longer queues as travelers adjust to the new EES requirements. With the Schengen Area comprising 27 countries (excluding the UK), coordination between nations becomes crucial for ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Interestingly, Greece has already paused its rollout of the EES due to considerable delays—a clear indication that even member states are grappling with these changes. The EES was initially phased in starting October 12, 2025, but its full implementation has proven problematic. For travelers used to quick passage through borders, this transition period is proving frustrating.
Moreover, it’s important to note that EES registration is free and lasts for three years before re-registration is needed. However, this does little to alleviate immediate concerns for those caught up in current delays. As they navigate through lengthy processes at airports, one must wonder: will these biometric systems ultimately improve efficiency or simply add layers of complexity?
Details remain unconfirmed regarding how long these disruptions may last or if further adjustments will be made by Ryanair or airport authorities. As travelers continue to face challenges at borders across Europe, all eyes will be on how effectively these systems can be refined in practice.
The reality is that while biometric systems like EES aim to modernize border control, their initial rollout has been anything but smooth for airlines like Ryanair and their passengers. As we move forward into a new era of travel regulations, it remains essential for both authorities and travelers alike to adapt quickly and efficiently.