Call to suspend new EU border system in peak holiday period as planes leave half full
Airlines and airports are urging the European Commission to suspend a new biometric border check system during the peak summer travel season. Industry groups report that the system is causing massive delays, with some passengers waiting up to five hours and flights departing half-empty.
Why it matters
The logistical failure of new border technology threatens to disrupt international travel and tourism during the busiest time of the year.
Passengers queue at Brussels airport. European airports are expected to handle about 40m more passengers in July and August than the previous two months. Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Passengers queue at Brussels airport. European airports are expected to handle about 40m more passengers in July and August than the previous two months. Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Travel & leisure Call to suspend new EU border system in peak holiday period as planes leave half full Airlines and airports say passengers are struggling in queues of up to five hours for biometric checks
The article presents the industry's perspective on a policy issue while acknowledging the operational challenges.
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