Airline organisations welcome delay of EES

Airline and airport organisations A4E, IATA, ERA and ACI Europe have issued a joint assertion welcoming the choice to postpone the implementation of the European Union’s Entry Exit System (EES). 

An automatic IT system for registering travellers from third nations, together with the UK, the EES was as a result of launch in Might 2023 however has since been pushed to late 2023 as a result of contractor delays.

In a joint assertion the organisations stated the EES can be a “sport changer” for the EU’s borders however that “various points” should nonetheless be resolved to make sure a easy roll out and operation of the brand new system.

The problems, based on the organisations, embrace:

• Wider adoption and efficient implementation of automation at nationwide border crossing factors by nationwide authorities.
• Funding by EU member states to make sure a ample variety of skilled employees and assets, significantly at airports.
• Deployment of ample assets to help the implementation of latest procedures by airports and airways.
• The necessity for a public communications marketing campaign to alert third-country nationals to the brand new necessities.

The organisations acknowledged: “The aviation trade is totally behind the roll out of EES and is dedicated to working with the EU and nationwide authorities for a profitable implementation. However it will be significant that the EU and nationwide authorities tackle trade issues and supply environment friendly co-ordination for efficient implementation.“

The joint assertion continued: “Suspending implementation till after the busy 2023 summer season interval will give airways, airports and EU and nationwide authorities the chance to resolve these points and make sure the system is totally examined.”

The organisations additionally suggested that EU-LISA, the company chargeable for managing the EES system, strengthen its communications with the trade, together with worldwide companions such because the US, to make sure IT methods are “linked and appropriate”.

“A brand new begin date for EES must be set to make sure continued easy aviation operations and specifically trouble-free processing of passengers at airports,” stated the assertion.