The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has expressed its support for concerns raised by Europe’s airport and airline community regarding the implementation of the Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES), endorsing the request outlined in a joint open letter published by Airports Council International (ACI) Europe, Airlines for Europe (A4E) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) on June 29, 2026.
While recognising the importance of modernising border systems and strengthening security across Europe, WTTC cautioned that inadequate flexibility, unreliable equipment, insufficient staffing and poor traveller communication could create operational bottlenecks that may undermine the visitor experience and Europe’s competitiveness as a global destination. The organisation warned that failure to address these challenges could place Europe at a disadvantage compared to destinations offering faster and more seamless entry procedures.
According to recent WTTC analysis, based on research involving more than 2,500 travellers across key long- and short-haul source markets, consistent border waiting times of three hours or more could significantly deter demand, with around one-third of respondents stating they would be less likely to visit the Schengen area. Applied to 2026 forecasts, WTTC estimates that up to 41 million visitor arrivals and US$45.4 billion in visitor spending could be at risk.
To support the successful rollout of the new border system, WTTC has called for three key measures: accelerating adoption of the Travel to Europe app for digital EES pre-registration; launching coordinated communication campaigns across key source markets to ensure travellers understand the new entry requirements before departure; and ensuring full operational readiness at border checkpoints through adequate staffing, reliable equipment and streamlined processes, including for travellers who have already submitted biometric information and pre-registration data.
WTTC also stressed that while the sector supports the long-term benefits of a more secure and efficient border framework, implementation must safeguard the seamless movement of international travellers and protect the economic contribution of Travel and Tourism across Europe. The organisation noted that the sector contributed US$3 trillion to the European economy and supported 40.7 million jobs in 2025.
Commenting on the issue, Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of WTTC, said. “EES represents an important step towards smarter, more secure borders for Europe. But implementation must be practical, coordinated and traveller focused. If lengthy delays become accepted practice, travellers will look elsewhere. Europe cannot afford to compromise its competitiveness or the experience it offers millions of visitors. We encourage European Commissioners to work closely with industry to ensure the system delivers on its promise of better borders without creating unintended barriers to travel.”
, warning that prolonged border delays could put 41 million arrivals and US$45.4 billion in visitor spending at risk.){kind=link}