What happens when new border control measures leave travelers stranded? This question became painfully relevant for around 100 EasyJet passengers at Milan Linate Airport on April 12, 2026, as they faced significant delays due to the recently implemented European Entry / Exit System (EES). Despite arriving at the airport on time, many were unable to board their flights, raising concerns about the efficiency of border controls and the responsibilities of airlines.
The EES, which became fully operational just two days prior on April 10, 2026, requires biometric registration for travelers entering and exiting the Schengen area. This new system has led to longer than usual waiting times at passport control, a situation that the UK government had warned travelers to expect. EasyJet, in response to the chaos, offered free flight transfers to those who missed their flights due to these delays, acknowledging that the situation was beyond their control.
Reports from passengers indicated severe congestion at border control, with queues stretching across terminal halls. Vicky Chapman, a mother traveling with her family from Merseyside, recounted their experience: “We got to the airport with more than enough time, and got to our gate at 9.30am, but we were totally refused entry through passport control.” This sentiment was echoed by many others who found themselves spending more time in border queues than in the air.
EasyJet’s spokesperson commented on the situation, stating, “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.” This advice, however, did little to alleviate the frustration of those who had already followed the recommended guidelines.
The delays were attributed to the European Union’s implementation of enhanced border checks, which have particularly affected flights between Italy and the United Kingdom. With the new EES requiring travelers to provide biometric information, the processing times have increased significantly, leading to a backlog of passengers. The Foreign Office also cautioned that travelers may need to provide either their fingerprint or photo when leaving the Schengen area, adding another layer of complexity to the travel experience.
While EasyJet has taken steps to mitigate the impact on its passengers, the situation raises important questions about the responsibilities of airlines in the face of extraordinary circumstances. Missed flights due to border control queues are often classified as extraordinary circumstances, which limits compensation options for affected passengers. As travelers navigate this new landscape, they are advised to arrive earlier than usual for flights requiring passport checks.
As the dust settles on this incident, the broader implications of the EES on travel efficiency and passenger experience remain uncertain. While EasyJet has expressed a commitment to working with border authorities to alleviate delays, the effectiveness of these measures in the long term is still to be seen. For now, travelers must adapt to the new realities of international travel, where longer wait times may become the norm rather than the exception.