The CEO of easyJet has criticized the EU’s recently implemented border system, leading to significant delays causing numerous British travelers to miss their flights.

In a statement regarding the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), easyJet CEO Kenton Jarvis expressed his dissatisfaction to ITV News, stating, “It’s completely unacceptable. They’ve had since 2017, the beginning of Brexit negotiations between the UK and the EU, to prepare for this situation, and it’s evident they have done a poor job.”

The digital system, initially scheduled to launch in October of the previous year but fully operational only from April 10, now mandates UK passengers traveling to Schengen area countries to register biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, at airport kiosks upon arrival. No prior registration is required, and there are no associated fees.

However, the UK Government has cautioned that the new checks may consume more time compared to the previous manual passport stamping system for non-EU travelers upon entry.

Mr. Jarvis suggested a more adaptable implementation of the new system, proposing, “Implement it during off-peak times, when airport traffic is low. Use common sense, for instance on a Saturday before a bank holiday or school break.”

He also noted that issues have been gradually alleviating since the system’s introduction.

In a recent incident in April, approximately 100 easyJet customers were left stranded in Milan due to border delays. Mr. Jarvis defended the decision to leave passengers behind, explaining, “Our flight crew have regulated flying hours, and if delays persist, they may exceed their permitted hours, preventing them from completing the flight.”

An easyJet spokesperson acknowledged the extended waiting times at passport control in Milan Linate, advising passengers to factor in additional time for the process and offering free flight transfers for affected customers, including those bound for Manchester on flight EJU5420.

The airline continues to urge border authorities to maximize flexibility in implementing the European Entry/Exit System to avoid inconvenience for customers caused by unacceptable border delays.

For further details on the EU’s Entry/Exit System, visit the UK Government’s website.