The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) modernizes how non-EU nationals enter and exit the Schengen Area. Designed to enhance border security and operational efficiency, EES replaces traditional passport stamping with digital registration, directly impacting airlines, business aviation operators, and various aviation stakeholders. Understanding EES is crucial to ensure compliance, avoid delays, and enhance border crossing efficiency.

Overview of the Entry/Exit System

EES is a digital framework for tracking non-EU nationals’ entry and exit within the Schengen Area. Currently, passport stamping is the norm; however, EES introduces a streamlined, digital alternative to improve accuracy and security. The system captures biometric data (fingerprints and facial scans), entry/exit times, and border locations, allowing authorities to monitor overstay occurrences and facilitate cross-border travel.

Impact on border security and efficiency

EES is expected to transform border security by:

• Reducing overstays: Digital tracking simplifies monitoring for authorized durations, minimizing overstays.
• Enhancing security: Biometric data collection helps in identifying and preventing fraudulent identities.
• Speeding up border processes: The digital system is expected to reduce wait times, particularly at busy entry points.
EES will not change existing visa regulations but will enhance tracking for visa compliance.

Implications for aviation stakeholders

For business aviation operators and commercial carriers, EES poses significant changes:

• Compliance requirements: Operators must ensure valid visas and proper registration of passengers to avoid penalties.
• Account maintenance: Operators with EES accounts that remain inactive for over a year may face deactivation, but reminders for reactivation will be provided.
• Data security: Due to the sensitive nature of biometric data, operators must sign security agreements, including adherence to EU GDPR standards

Challenges and preparations for operators

Implementing EES requires coordination across multiple EU member states, creating potential challenges:

• Technical barriers at small airports: Smaller or less-equipped entry points may struggle with technical requirements like biometric scanning.
• FBO preparedness: Fixed-base operators (FBOs), especially at smaller airports, may face initial difficulties. Communication with local border authorities is essential to ensure smooth EES adoption.

Operators are encouraged to maintain EES access, even for infrequent flights, to ensure compliance.

Future developments: ETIAS and EES transition period

By 2025, the EU will introduce the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), a pre-travel authorization system for visa-exempt travelers, similar to the U.S. ESTA system. Together with EES, ETIAS aims to create a robust framework for managing entry into the Schengen Area.

Looking ahead: key takeaways

Operators must prepare for the EES implementation to avoid disruptions:

• Register early: Early EES registration helps prevent delays.
• Ensure system access: Retain access to the EES portal or app, even if outsourcing operations, to handle unexpected issues.
• Proactive communication: Engage with FBOs and local authorities to understand each airport’s EES procedures.

Please be advised that the implementation of the Entry/Exit System, which was initially scheduled for 10 November 2024, has been postponed to a later date, which is currently undetermined. This additional time provides an opportunity for all stakeholders to ensure readiness for the next announced mandate date