EES Rollout Could Cause Delays at Paris Airports This Summer, Says Aéroports de Paris, Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Published on February 25, 2026

Image generated with Ai

The two largest airports in France, Aéroports de Paris, which manages Paris Orly and Charles-de-Gaulle airports, have officially asked for a delay in the implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) during the summer of 2026. The airport operator has expressed its concerns regarding the lack of border control officers and the technical problems that could cause delays in the system, which could result in long waiting lines for passengers. This is especially important during the summer season, which is peak tourist season and when a large number of international tourists visit the country.

Concerns Over Border Control Staffing and Technology Challenges

One of the primary concerns voiced by Aéroports de Paris is the “chronic border control understaffing” at both Paris airports. The staffing shortages, combined with the new requirements of the EES system, have raised fears that passengers will face unnecessarily long waits at border checkpoints during the busiest travel months. The EES system, which requires non-EU citizens, including travelers from the UK and US, to register their biometric data at border kiosks, is expected to add additional steps to the passport control process.

Aéroports de Paris also highlighted unresolved technology issues that have surfaced during the limited rollout of the system. These issues include difficulties in processing biometric data, which have led to inefficiencies and operational delays during trials. With technology systems still needing refinement and integration, the airports are concerned that these challenges will become more pronounced during the summer travel rush when passenger volumes are at their peak.

The Phased Rollout of the EES System and Impact on Travel

The EES system is being implemented in phases across the European Union, with the aim of eventually covering all border crossings by April 10, 2026. The system is designed to streamline entry and exit procedures for non-EU citizens, helping to enhance security and ensure more efficient immigration processing. However, the phased rollout has already led to significant delays at some airports, with waiting times of up to three hours, particularly at airports that have already implemented the system in a limited capacity.

The implementation of the EES system is intended to improve the travel experience in the long term, but in the short term, it has created congestion at border control points. The airport authority in Lisbon had already suspended EES processing in late 2025 due to “serious deficiencies” in staffing and technology, which added to the growing concern among airport operators about the readiness of the system for full deployment.

Impact on Tourists and Travel During Peak Seasons

The full implementation of the EES system is expected to impact tourists traveling to and from France, especially during the busy summer months. Paris, one of the world’s top travel destinations, attracts millions of international visitors every year, particularly during the peak summer season. As more tourists return to travel post-pandemic, the increase in airport congestion and extended wait times at border control could significantly affect the overall visitor experience.

Travelers may face long queues at passport control, potentially resulting in missed connections, delays, and added stress during their journey. For those arriving in Paris for leisure, business, or connecting flights, the delays could tarnish their first impressions of the city. This is especially concerning for tourists visiting Paris to attend events, business conferences, or vacations, as they may have limited time to explore and enjoy the city’s cultural landmarks.

In addition to the potential for long wait times at the airports, the complexity of the EES system could make travel more confusing for some passengers, particularly those unfamiliar with the process of registering their biometric data at the border. This additional step could slow down the entry process and create further frustration for travelers already dealing with the usual pressures of international travel.

The Flexibility of EU Regulations and Potential for Postponement

While the European Commission has outlined a clear timeline for the full rollout of the EES system, EU member states have been given the flexibility to pause or delay the implementation if operational challenges arise. Aéroports de Paris is calling for this flexibility to be exercised, with the full rollout of the system postponed until after the peak summer travel season. This would allow the airports to focus on improving staffing levels and addressing technical issues, ensuring that the system functions smoothly once it is fully operational.

This request aligns with the European Commission’s stance that the flexibility offered to EU member states should allow them to manage the challenges that come with implementing such a large-scale system. This flexibility gives countries the opportunity to adapt and address operational concerns, such as staffing shortages and technological limitations, before the system is rolled out nationwide.

Future of the EES System and Its Long-Term Benefits

In the long term, the EES system is expected to bring benefits to the travel industry and improve the passenger experience by increasing efficiency and security at border control points. By automating the process of immigration checks, the system aims to reduce manual processing time, enhance border security, and facilitate smoother travel for non-EU citizens. The system is also designed to help manage the increasing volume of travelers, especially in popular travel destinations like Paris.

While the short-term implementation challenges have raised concerns among airport operators, the system’s long-term advantages, including faster processing times and greater security, are expected to outweigh these initial hurdles. As the system matures and issues related to staffing and technology are addressed, travelers can expect a more streamlined and secure process when entering or leaving the EU.

Navigating the Challenges of EES Implementation for Travelers

The request by Aéroports de Paris to suspend the full rollout of the EES system during the summer months highlights the challenges of implementing a large-scale immigration control system. While the delays and technical issues during the initial phases are concerning, the long-term benefits of the system for both travelers and the aviation industry remain clear. As the European Union works to address these challenges and refine the system, airports like those in Paris will continue to play a vital role in ensuring smooth and efficient travel experiences for millions of international visitors.