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Jun 25, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Rome Airports Threaten to Suspend EU Biometric Entry System to Avert Summer Chaos

AI Summary
Rome’s main airports are considering suspending the EU’s new biometric entry‑exit system for non‑EU travellers to prevent severe delays during the peak summer travel period. Airport chief Marco Troncone warns that the system’s technology cannot handle the expected passenger volumes, with queues already reaching up to three‑and‑a‑half hours.

Rome’s two main airports, Fiumicino and Ciampino, are preparing to suspend the EU’s new digital border check for non‑EU citizens in order to avoid a “disaster” during the summer travel peak, according to airport chief Marco Troncone.

Rome Airports Plan to Bypass the EU Entry‑Exit System

  • The EU Entry‑Exit System (EES) requires first‑time non‑EU travellers to submit fingerprints and facial images.
  • System was introduced in October 2025 and fully rolled out in mid‑April 2026 after technical delays.
  • Marco Troncone rates the summer risk at “eight or nine” out of ten, saying the process is incompatible with peak volumes.
  • Skipping EES is presented as the only way to keep the “valve open” for passenger flow.

Queue Times Reach Up to Six Hours, Highlighting Operational Strain

  • IATA warns that queues could hit six hours at some airports, with recorded waits of up to three‑and‑a‑half hours during early peak periods.
  • Delays have already caused missed flights and long lines before the summer rush.

Wider Industry Concerns Over the EES Rollout

  • British travellers have faced extensive delays; French police temporarily suspended extra checks at Dover in May 2026.
  • Greece rescinded a promise to exempt UK travellers from biometric checks until September 2026.
  • Stefan Schulte, president of ACI Europe, says only EU governments can decide on suspension, urging politicians to acknowledge the system’s failures.
  • The European Commission cites “built‑in flexibility” that allows certain functions of EES to be paused.

Potential Suspension and Long‑Term Outlook

  • If Rome’s airports suspend EES, it could set a precedent for other EU hubs facing similar peak‑season pressures.
  • Uku Särekanno of Frontex cautions that the situation may not stabilise for up to two years.
  • Airlines, represented by IATA, are monitoring the development closely, as prolonged disruptions could impact summer revenue forecasts.