Europe's Airports Face Six-Hour Queues: IATA Warns of New Crisis.

Lengthy Airport Lines and Flight Delays Across Europe

According to Novyny.live: A top official from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Vice President Rafael Schvartzman, has raised alarms over the growing risk of severe delays at European airports. The culprit is the rollout of a new EU border control system, which could force passengers to wait in lines for up to six hours—a situation that threatens to disrupt travel significantly.

Launched in April 2023, the Entry/Exit System (EES) now requires non-EU travelers to provide fingerprints and a photo upon arrival. This added step has already caused bottlenecks and missed connecting flights in countries like Portugal, Spain, and Italy. Schvartzman stressed that

“waiting in a queue for 3 to 6 hours is unacceptable”

Ryanair Expands in Poland Amid Border Woes

Despite these challenges, Ryanair has announced a major expansion of its operations in Katowice, Poland, for summer 2026. The airline is investing $900 million in the project, signaling its intent to grow its market presence even as the industry grapples with new obstacles.

Schvartzman also noted that aviation is often treated as a political football, highlighting the complexity of the situation and the urgent need to address passenger service issues at European airports.

These delays could have a serious impact on Europe’s tourism sector, as deteriorating passenger experiences may deter travelers from visiting the region. At the same time, Ryanair’s expansion plans in Poland show that airlines are adapting to new conditions, seeking growth opportunities despite the broader challenges facing the aviation industry.