Ryanair warns of summer passport chaos at Palma Airport
What is the new Entry/Exit System?
The European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) will soon require many non‑EU travellers to scan their passports, give fingerprints and have a photo taken at border control. The goal is to improve security and track who enters and leaves the Schengen area.
Why airports may struggle this summer
Ryanair says airports in southern Europe are not ready for the extra checks during the peak holiday rush. They point out shortages of:
- Border officers
- Self‑service kiosks
- Staff trained to handle the new procedures
With millions of families set to travel, these gaps could lead to long queues and delayed flights.
Which airports are highlighted as vulnerable?
Palma de Mallorca is singled out alongside other busy hubs such as Malaga, Alicante, Tenerife South, Milan Bergamo, Krakow and Paris Beauvais. Ryanair warns that these locations could see the biggest bottlenecks when schools break up across Europe.
Ryanair’s call for a delay
The airline has repeatedly urged EU governments to postpone the EES rollout until after the summer peak, noting that member states have the flexibility to delay implementation. Ryanair argues that launching the system now would turn passengers into “guinea pigs” for an untested process.
Advice for travellers
For flights that require passport checks, Ryanair recommends:
- Arriving at the airport earlier than usual
- Checking real‑time queue updates if available
- Having all travel documents ready before reaching the border desk
Taking these steps can help reduce the risk of missing a flight due to unexpected delays.
Conclusion
While the Entry/Exit System aims to strengthen border security, its introduction during the busiest travel period could create avoidable stress for holidaymakers. Ryanair’s warning highlights the need for better preparation—or a temporary postponement—to keep summer getaways smooth and enjoyable for teens, families and all travellers alike.
Source: Majorca Daily Bulletin
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