European airport authorities have called for a temporary suspension of a newly implemented border control system that has caused significant delays for travelers from non-European Union countries. The Airports Council International Europe has urged the European Commission to suspend the system at least through July and August, citing operational challenges and lengthy wait times.

The entry/exit system, designed to enhance security within the Schengen Area, requires travelers from non-EU countries to have their fingerprints registered and a photograph taken upon arrival. However, airport officials describe the rollout as “half-baked,” pointing to substantial delays, with some travelers reportedly facing wait times of up to five hours.

The problem has affected several major European airports, including those in popular tourist destinations such as Lanzarote, Tenerife, Malaga, Paris, Palma, Malta, and Menorca. These locations have recorded some of the longest queues and operational difficulties due to the new procedures.

Airports Council International Europe, representing airport operators and authorities, has emphasized the strain the system is placing on passenger flow and airport resources during peak travel months. The group argues that the delays disrupt travel plans and diminish the overall passenger experience.

The European Commission has not yet responded publicly to the request for suspension. The entry/exit system was introduced as part of broader efforts to improve border security and better track non-EU visitors across the Schengen Area. Proponents suggest the system will enhance safety and simplify border enforcement in the long term, while opponents highlight the immediate impact on travelers and airport operations.

As the summer travel season peaks, the debate over the border control system’s implementation underscores the challenges of balancing security measures with efficient passenger processing in Europe’s busiest airports.