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Rome Airports Suspend New EU Biometric Border Checks
Rome airport operator says it may allow non-EU passengers to skip the new entry-exit system checks this summer to prevent long queues. The decision would affect travelers from the UK and other countries outside the Schengen Area.
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Rome's two main airports may suspend the European Union's new biometric border checks for non-EU travelers this summer to avoid lengthy delays. Marco Troncone, CEO of Aeroporti di Roma, told the Financial Times that Fiumicino and Ciampino airports will need to let some passengers bypass the entry-exit system enrollment process. He said the current procedure cannot handle expected peak volumes.
Background on the Entry-Exit System The entry-exit system requires non-EU citizens, including travelers from the UK, to provide fingerprints and a photograph upon entering the Schengen Area. The system began full operation in April. Several European aviation executives have warned of travel disruptions since the rollout.
Lengthy queues and missed connections have already occurred at some airports.
Troncone rated his concern level at eight or nine out of ten for the coming summer season. He stated there is no way the airports can complete full enrollment for all passengers during peak periods. Stefan Schulte, president of ACI Europe and head of the company that owns Frankfurt airport, called on EU Home Affairs Commissioner Brunner to acknowledge that the system is not working as intended.
Greek authorities have indicated they will not collect biometric data from UK travelers this summer, according to the UK Foreign Office. The Independent contacted Aeroporti di Roma for comment.
