ECTAA expresses concern over EES implementation

The European Travel Agents' and Tour Operators' Associations (ECTAA), in cooperation with several other European associations in the sector, has drawn the European Commission's attention to the challenges associated with the introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES)—biometric passenger controls at EU border crossings.

In a joint letter to the Commission, the signatories warn of the frequency of long queues at border crossings and operational difficulties with the implementation of the EES, which directly disrupts the travel experience for many at the peak of the summer holiday season. Representatives of the tourism industry emphasize that inadequate management of the EES implementation could threaten Europe's attractiveness as a tourist destination and create administrative and logistical obstacles for international visitors.

This concern is shared by a growing number of key stakeholders in the sector, including the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), which warned that prolonged waits at borders could deter tourists from visiting Europe, resulting in far-reaching negative consequences for the entire EU economy. The new EES system began its rollout in mid-April after years of delays, and it requires third-country nationals (non-EU) to provide fingerprints and be photographed upon their first entry into the Schengen area. The aim of the system is to better control the external borders of the European Union.

The letter appeals to the European Commission and Member States to establish close cooperation with border authorities and sector representatives to ensure the smooth and efficient implementation of the new system. The signatories specifically urge policymakers to urgently adopt practical measures that will minimize delays, reduce wait times, and preserve a high quality of travel experience for all visitors entering the European Union.

Source: ECTAA