What happens when travelers arrive on time but still miss their flights? This unfortunate scenario unfolded for around 100 easyJet passengers at Milan Linate Airport on April 12, 2026, as they found themselves stranded due to significant delays at passport control caused by the newly implemented European Entry / Exit System (EES).
The EES, which became fully operational just two days prior on April 10, 2026, requires biometric registration for travelers entering the Schengen area. Passengers reported waiting in long queues, with some spending more time in border control lines than in the air. A family from Merseyside, for instance, arrived at the airport with ample time to spare, only to be refused entry through passport control despite reaching their gate at 9:30 AM, just before their flight took off at 11:00 AM.
“We got to the airport with more than enough time, and got to our gate at 9:30 AM, but we were totally refused entry through passport control,” shared Vicky Chapman, a frustrated passenger. The delays were exacerbated by severe congestion at border control, with queues stretching across terminal halls, as travelers adjusted to the new requirements.
In light of these challenges, easyJet has stepped in to assist affected passengers by offering free flight transfers to those who missed their flights due to border delays. An easyJet spokesperson acknowledged the situation, stating, “We are aware that some passengers departing from Milan Linate today experienced longer than usual waiting times at passport control and we advised customers due to fly to allow additional time to make their way through the airport.” The airline emphasized that the delays were beyond their control and expressed their apologies for the inconvenience.
The UK government had previously warned travelers heading to the Schengen area to anticipate longer wait times at border control due to the EES. The Foreign Office also cautioned that travelers may need to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints or photos, when leaving the Schengen area. This new system aims to enhance border security but has resulted in unexpected challenges for many travelers.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how easyJet and other airlines will adapt to these new border control measures. Passengers are now advised to arrive earlier than usual for flights requiring passport checks, as missed flights due to border control queues are often classified as extraordinary circumstances, limiting compensation options for those affected. With the implementation of the EES still fresh, many travelers are left wondering how long these delays will persist.
For the stranded family from Merseyside, the wait continues, as they face two more days before they can return home. While the immediate focus is on helping those affected, the broader implications of the EES on travel between the UK and the Schengen area are still unfolding. As travelers navigate this new landscape, the hope is that border authorities will find ways to minimize delays and ensure smoother passage for all.
