The Entry/Exit System (EES) had just launched fully on April 10, 2026, meant to streamline border processing for non-EU nationals. Passengers now need to provide fingerprints and a facial photo, part of the EU’s updated security measures. But on that day, only about a third of the 15 booths were manned, leading to long queues.

After more than five hours stuck in line for passport control, David described the scene as “mayhem.” He recalled people around him—some crying, others anxiously pleading, “Excuse me, I’m going to miss my flight.” The family eventually got through passport control two hours after their flight took off.

Key issues contributing to delays:

• EES kiosks at main hubs in France were not working due to technical issues.
• Passengers were processed manually, taking about five minutes each.
• ACI Europe warned of travel delays of up to three hours during peak periods.

As they waited, David pondered alternatives. “I’d probably drive,” he said. “I just think the hassle of all that you can drive there quicker.” Meanwhile, Greece had suspended biometrics for British nationals amid growing queues, highlighting broader concerns about the EES implementation.

The European Commission maintains that the EES system has been functioning well in most member states since its launch. Yet for families like the Newtons—who missed their flight—it’s clear that significant issues remain. No timeline has been shared regarding when these technical problems will be resolved or how long countries will suspend EES checks.

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As the day unfolded, news spread like wildfire. Lufthansa had already grounded up to 27 planes, grappling with soaring kerosene prices exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. KLM wasn’t immune either; they scrapped 160 flights over the coming month, leaving passengers scrambling for alternatives. EasyJet reported a staggering £25 million loss just last month due to these surging fuel costs.

The head of the International Energy Agency underscored the urgency of the situation—Europe had approximately six weeks of jet fuel remaining. The ongoing war in Iran was tightening its grip on oil supplies, and airports across the continent were bracing for impact. “At this stage,” warned Airports Council International (ACI) Europe, “systemic jet fuel shortage is set to become a reality for the EU.”

But what did this mean for travelers? Jet2 advised passengers to arrive at least two hours before their flights. Check-in closes just 40 minutes before departure. Anxiety levels rose as families weighed their options—would they make it to their destinations on time?

TUI stated it was monitoring the situation closely, assuring travelers they did not anticipate immediate disruption. Yet uncertainty hung in the air like a thick fog. Michael O’Leary, Ryanair’s boss, acknowledged a reasonable risk—”maybe 10% to 25% of our supplies might be at risk through May and June.” Details remain unconfirmed.

And while KLM insisted there was no kerosene shortage currently, passengers remained skeptical. They watched as airlines navigated this precarious landscape—one wrong move could lead to widespread cancellations and chaos.

This sequence of events matters deeply for those involved. Travelers are not just numbers; they are families reuniting or friends embarking on adventures. Each canceled flight represents missed connections and shattered plans. As tensions rise and supplies dwindle, it’s clear that everyone is holding their breath.

As we stand on the brink of what could be an unprecedented crisis in air travel, one thing is certain: passengers will need patience—and perhaps a bit of luck—as they navigate this turbulent sky ahead.

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The man was quickly transported to the hospital following the fall, though details about his condition remain unclear. This incident comes at a time when travel disruptions are already affecting passengers, particularly those flying from Milan to Manchester.

In a related issue, around 100 passengers found themselves stranded at Milan Airport due to significant delays at passport control. Many were left frustrated as they missed their easyJet flight to Manchester, which had been held for nearly an hour to accommodate late arrivals. An easyJet spokesperson noted, “We held flight EJU5420 from Milan to Manchester for nearly an hour to give passengers extra time but it had to then depart due to crew reaching their safety regulated operating hours.” This highlights the delicate balance airlines must maintain between accommodating passengers and adhering to safety regulations.

Passengers expressed their dismay, with one stating, “We are stuck,” while another lamented, “What a nightmare!” The situation escalated as the 11am flight from Milan Linate to Manchester departed without half its intended passengers. Many of those left behind had queued for up to three hours at passport control, exacerbating their frustration.

The UK government has recently updated its guidance for travelers heading to the European Schengen area, which may require biometric registration upon arrival. This change could contribute to the delays experienced at Milan Airport, as travelers navigate new protocols and procedures.

As investigations continue into the incident at Manchester Airport, questions remain about the safety measures in place for ground operations and the overall travel experience for passengers. The implications of these events could resonate throughout the aviation industry, prompting a reevaluation of safety protocols and operational procedures.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full circumstances surrounding the man’s fall and the ongoing travel disruptions. As authorities work to piece together the facts, passengers and industry stakeholders alike are left awaiting further developments.

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