What happens when new border control measures lead to significant delays for travelers? This question became a reality for around 100 easyJet passengers stranded at Milan Linate Airport on April 12, 2026, as they faced longer than usual waiting times at passport control due to the recently implemented European Entry / Exit System (EES).
The EES, which became fully operational on April 10, 2026, requires biometric registration for travelers entering the Schengen area. This new system has resulted in severe congestion at border control, with queues stretching across terminal halls. Passengers reported spending more time in these queues than in the air, leading to frustration and confusion.
Among those affected was a family from Merseyside, who arrived at the airport with ample time before their flight. Despite reaching the gate at 9:30 AM, they were denied entry through passport control and ultimately missed their flight, which departed at 11:00 AM. The family, including their 5-year-old son Fredrik, spent three hours seeking assistance before they could find a resolution.
EasyJet has acknowledged the situation, stating that the delays were beyond their control and offered free flight transfers to passengers who missed their flights due to border delays. An easyJet spokesperson emphasized the importance of allowing additional time for airport processing, saying, “We are aware that some passengers departing from Milan Linate today experienced longer than usual waiting times at passport control and we advised customers due to fly to allow additional time to make their way through the airport.”
The UK government had previously warned travelers heading to the Schengen area to expect longer wait times at border control due to the EES. The Foreign Office also cautioned that travelers may need to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints or photos, when leaving the Schengen area. This new requirement has added to the complexity of international travel between the UK and EU countries.
As the situation unfolded, easyJet urged border authorities to utilize the flexibilities permitted during the EES implementation to minimize delays for travelers. “We continue to urge border authorities to ensure they make full and effective use of the permitted flexibilities for as long as needed while the European Entry / Exit System is implemented, to avoid these unacceptable border delays for our customers,” the spokesperson stated.
Despite the airline’s efforts to assist stranded passengers, the missed flights due to border control queues are often classified as extraordinary circumstances, which limits compensation options for affected travelers. Passengers are now advised to arrive earlier than usual for flights requiring passport checks to avoid similar situations in the future.
As the new border control measures continue to be implemented, the full impact on travelers remains to be seen. With ongoing reports of congestion at airports, details remain unconfirmed regarding how long these delays may persist and what additional measures might be introduced to alleviate the situation.
