Brussels Airport Faces Potential Summer Travel Chaos Due to New EU Entry/Exit System
European airport authorities are warning of significant delays this summer as the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) continues its phased rollout. Three major aviation organizations – Airports Council International Europe, Airlines for Europe, and the International Air Transport Association – have jointly called for urgent solutions, citing potential wait times of four hours or more for travelers.
What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
Implemented starting in October 2025, the EES is a digital system designed to register the personal data of non-EU citizens entering and exiting the Schengen area. It replaces the traditional manual passport stamping process. The system captures entry and exit dates and locations, aiming to improve security and border management. The rollout is scheduled to continue through April 2026.
Current Issues and Concerns
Despite assurances from European institutions that the system is functioning well, aviation groups report substantial delays and inconvenience for non-EU travelers. New border control posts and camera systems have been installed at Brussels Airport, as part of the EES implementation. The system applies to non-EU citizens traveling to Europe for short stays of up to 90 days.
The core of the problem appears to be a disconnect between the perceived functionality of the EES and the reality experienced by passengers. Organizations are urging EU Commissioner Magnus Brunner to address the issues immediately.
Broader Context: Air Travel Challenges in Europe
These concerns arrive amidst other challenges facing the European aviation sector. Recent reports indicate potential disruptions due to kerosene shortages and electricity cuts, as highlighted by a Cuban hotelier. The airline industry continues to navigate the complexities of post-pandemic recovery and fluctuating demand.
The EU also maintains a “blacklist” of airlines banned or restricted from operating within European airspace due to safety concerns. This list is regularly updated to ensure passenger safety.
Brussels Environment Initiatives and Regional Impact
Even as the EES impacts travel, Brussels is also focused on local environmental initiatives. Brussels Environment is promoting the valorization of green waste in gardens and has reopened applications for ECORENO credits for home renovations, starting January 1, 2026. A public consultation is also underway regarding the geological storage of high-activity and long-lived nuclear waste in Belgium, running from January 7th to March 8th, 2026.
FAQ
What is the EES? The Entry/Exit System is a new EU system that digitally registers travel data for non-EU citizens.
Who does the EES apply to? It applies to citizens of countries outside the European Union traveling to Europe for short stays (up to 90 days).
When will the EES be fully implemented? The rollout began in October 2025 and is expected to be completed by April 2026.
What are the potential consequences of the EES? Potential consequences include significant delays at border crossings, with estimates of up to four hours.
Where can I find more information about the EES? You can find more information on the Brussels Airport website: https://www.brusselsairport.be/fr/passenger/travel-planner/border-control/entry-exit-system
What is Brussels Environment doing? Brussels Environment is focused on initiatives like promoting green waste valorization and offering renovation credits.
Where can I find information about environmental issues in Brussels? Visit the official Brussels Environment website: https://environnement.brussels/
What is the EU air safety list? The EU air safety list identifies airlines that are banned or restricted from operating in European airspace due to safety concerns. More information is available here.
Where can I find information about the Bureau des Etrangers in Brussels? https://www.bruxelles.be/directory-1936
What is the Circularium project? The Circularium is a new center for circular production, local innovation, and social support, transforming former industrial areas in Brussels.
What is the ECORENO credit? The ECORENO credit is a financial incentive for Brussels residents to renovate their homes, reopened on January 1, 2026.
