Peak waiting times at two major European airports have doubled this summer compared to a year ago after the EU’s chaotic rollout of its new electronic border system, according to data obtained by the FT.
The maximum queue time in Frankfurt reached 120 minutes in July during the summer travel rush, up from 60 minutes a year prior, according to data from travel analytics group Qsensor.
In Munich, peak waiting times went from 31 minutes to 60 minutes, the data shows, while Amsterdam airport saw maximum waiting times rise from 80 to 120 minutes.
The travel industry has repeatedly predicted the new system would lead to long delays and warned it ignored the potential for bottlenecks as airports struggle to process passengers quickly enough.
The EU implemented its Entry Exit System (EES) in April, which requires passengers from the UK and other non-EU countries to register with their fingerprints, photo and personal information when they first arrive.
