New automated checks using biometric data are being introduced in the EU this autumn. EU travel rules are being introduced that will mean passengers from outside the bloc have to pass through a new automated system. Known as the , it will replace the stamping of passports for non-EU travellers who don’t require a visa.
These checks will use biometric data including fingerprints, facial scans and passport information, which will be taken the first time you enter an EU country after the system is introduced. After numerous setbacks, it is due to be introduced in autumn this year. But airlines have warned that the launch is likely to have a major impact on travellers - including the end of last-minute bookings.
Currently, airline passengers have to provide some details before they fly, such as name, passport number and date of birth. This is known as Advanced Passenger Information (API) and it is likely to become more detailed when the EES is introduced. It will also require airlines to get the greenlight for passengers to travel.
The deadline for this is reportedly up to 48 hours before departure. They will have to send the API for verification and the system will respond with either “OK” or “NOT OK” for boarding. Airlines will also be fined if they allow non-compliant passengers to board.
This deadline and the complexity of the process is something that airlines are worried about for people . The parent company for Ryanair, Buzz, Lauda Europe and Malta Air has raised.
