Johan Lundgren Easyjet Ees Concerns

Johan Lundgren, CEO of easyJet until early 2025, has recently raised serious concerns about the introduction of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), warning that it could create unprecedented border delays. His insights, shared at a major travel industry conference, highlight how new fingerprint and facial recognition checks might leave passengers stuck onboard, causing ripple effects across airports and airlines. Lundgren’s warnings emphasize the complexity of aligning EU digital border controls with practical travel realities.

Understanding the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES)

EES is an upgraded border regime for non-EU travellers entering and exiting the Schengen area. The system mandates that visitors from countries such as the UK undergo biometric checks fingerprint scans and a facial photograph at every entry and exit. Data will be stored for up to three years, replacing manual passport stamping with automated checks.

Goals and Implementation Rollout

• Improve security by monitoring entry and exit more accurately.
• Reduce undocumented stays in Schengen countries.
• Digitize border control for efficiency but risk causing new bottlenecks.

Originally slated for implementation in November 2024, EES has faced several delays. France, Germany, and the Netherlands have called for postponement to address logistical issues in airports and border facilities.

Johan Lundgren’s Key Concerns

Speaking at the ABTA travel trade conference, Lundgren portrayed a realistic scenario: long withdrawal queues clogging passport control, preventing passengers from disembarking. ‘In the worst case you actually can’t disembark, you hold people on the plane,’ he warned. This could cause early shut-downs of gates, cascade of missed departures, and terminal gridlock.

Operational Impact on Airlines

• Delayed turnaround times aircraft remain grounded longer.
• Reduced gate availability subsequent flights delayed or rerouted.
• Additional costs for airlines due to disruption and passenger care.

Lundgren emphasized that EES is new to border agents and passengers alike, and without pre-boarding pre-registration via a mobile app, there will be immediate friction.

Reactions from the Travel Industry

Other travel stakeholders echoed Lundgren’s concerns. Neil Swanson of TUI predicted ‘hiccups’ and stressed the importance of government communication about EES. ABTA, the UK travel trade body, reported record interest from members seeking clarity.

Calls for Delays and Preparedness

• Phased rollout to allow pilot testing and adjustments.
• Pre-registration app to lighten terminal stress.
• Government-led campaigns to inform travellers properly.

In response, the EU has agreed to delay EES launch and pilot pre-registration systems in some countries.

Implications for Passengers and Airports

Travelers may see longer queues and uncertainty at border checkpoints. Airports might need to rearrange staffing, increase kiosks, and enhance infrastructure to avoid crowded terminals. Cruise ports, train stations like Folkestone and St Pancras (under French checks), and ferry terminals are also under pressure.

Passenger Experience Risks

• Aircraft delays due to slow disembarkation.
• Missed connecting flights or onward transport.
• Overcrowded terminals and traveler frustration.

Operational and Financial Repercussions

easyJet forecasts increased operational complexity and higher costs without airport upgrades. Longer turnaround increases aircraft utilization time. Passenger care costs, including meals or accommodation, could rise. Delays can also degrade brand reputation and customer satisfaction.

Systemic Effects on the Aviation Ecosystem

• Pressure on airport infrastructure and staffing.
• Potential domino effects across cross-border transport.
• Revenue loss for airlines from cancellations or compensations.

Potential Solutions and Mitigations

Addressing these challenges requires collaboration across sectors:

Pre-Departure Registration

• Complete biometric checks before travel via mobile apps.
• Quicker arrivals through ‘fast lanes’ for pre-cleared passengers.

Airport Infrastructure Readiness

• Install more kiosks and staff training.
• Redesign terminals for smoother passenger flow.
• Implement real-time systems to predict and manage congestion.

Stakeholder Coordination

• Governments must lead information campaigns.
• Airlines need operational planning and buffer times.
• Border authorities should align processes across hubs.

Balancing Security with Travel Efficiency

EES strengthens border security, addressing overstays and irregular entries. However, the trade-off with passenger flow is delicate. Lundgren warns that without operational readiness, improved security could come at the cost of travel fluidity.

The challenge now is to implement robust border controls while keeping air travel smooth, cost-effective, and customer-friendly. Solutions lie in technology, logistics, and clear communication across the board.

Looking Ahead: What Travelers Should Expect

Passengers planning travel within Europe in the near future should:

• Follow official EES guidelines and app announcements.
• Allow extra time at arrival and border checkpoints.
• Be prepared for delays and follow staff instructions at airports.

Airlines and airports will need to update websites, booking systems, and communications. Travel disruptions are likely during the phased EES rollout, but gradual implementation may help smooth the transition.

Johan Lundgren’s warnings about easyJet being forced to hold passengers on aircraft under the new EES regime underscore the significant operational risks of digital border modernization. His concerns have prompted calls for delayed implementation, pre-registration, and enhanced infrastructure. The coming months will show whether EES can be integrated successfully without disrupting travel. Harmonizing security and seamless passenger flow will require cooperation across government agencies, airlines, and airports. Lundgren’s intervention may yet ensure a safer and more efficient European travel future.