On April 16, 2026, chaos erupted at Milan Bergamo Airport as Ryanair passengers faced extensive border delays due to the newly implemented Entry/Exit System (EES). As a result, numerous travelers missed their flights, leaving many stranded. This incident highlights the immediate effects of a system designed to streamline border control but which has instead caused frustration and confusion.
The EES, which became fully operational on April 10, 2026, requires non-EU citizens to register biometric information at border crossings. This includes scanning passports, providing fingerprints, and having facial images taken. While the intention is to replace manual passport stamping and track visa-free limits more effectively, the transition has not been smooth. On that fateful day, Ryanair reported that several passengers missed a flight from Milan to Manchester due to these passport control delays.
In total, around 30 passengers were left stranded at Milan Bergamo Airport alone, while an additional 122 were affected at Milan Linate. Such numbers illustrate just how disruptive these changes can be for travelers who are often already stressed about their journeys. One passenger expressed frustration: “I arrived on time but was stuck in line for what felt like ages. I couldn’t believe I missed my flight because of this new system.”
The EES was initially phased in starting October 12, 2025, with the aim of making travel across the Schengen Area more efficient. However, Greece recently paused its rollout due to considerable delays—an indication that these issues are not isolated to Italy. The Schengen Area includes 27 countries but excludes the UK and Cyprus, complicating travel for many.
Ryanair has advised customers to arrive early at busy airports like Milan Bergamo as longer queues become the norm under the new system. According to them, it takes approximately 1-2 minutes per person to complete EES registration—time that can add up quickly during peak travel periods.
The Greek Embassy noted that British passport holders are exempt from biometric registration at Greek border crossing points under this new framework—a small relief amid widespread complications. Yet for many travelers entering other Schengen countries, the process remains cumbersome and time-consuming.
As travelers navigate this new landscape of border control in Europe, uncertainties linger about how long these delays will continue. Will additional measures be implemented to alleviate the strain? Details remain unconfirmed.
