New EU Border System Triggers Ryanair Warning of Flight Delays at 15 Airports

Flight Disruptions Expected Across Europe Due to New Passport Control System

According to УНІАН — Туризм: Ryanair has alerted travelers to potential delays at 15 European airports, citing chaos caused by the rollout of a new EU entry passport control system. The disruptions stem from a transition period that began in October 2025, when the system first launched in a testing phase. It was fully activated in April 2026, leading to long lines and hold-ups at checkpoints. The system is designed to strengthen border security and streamline checks, but its implementation has proven challenging.

Airports Likely to Experience Delays

The airports expected to face disruptions include major European transport hubs. They are:

• Lisbon (Portugal)
• Tenerife South (Spain)
• Madrid (Spain)
• Lanzarote (Spain)
• Alicante (Spain)
• Malaga (Spain)
• Milan-Bergamo (Italy)
• Milan-Malpensa (Italy)
• Verona (Italy)
• Paris-Beauvais (France)
• Berlin (Germany)
• Cologne (Germany)
• Frankfurt-Hahn (Germany)
• Krakow (Poland)
• Budapest (Hungary)

Around ten EU countries have urged Brussels to simplify entry rules to reduce the risk of future delays. Passengers are advised to arrive at airports well in advance to avoid inconvenience caused by the new screening procedures. The situation has raised concerns among travelers planning trips in the coming months.

The EU's new passport control system aims to boost security and improve inspection efficiency, but its introduction has been far from smooth. Travelers using the listed airports should factor in possible delays and plan accordingly. The response from EU member states highlights the seriousness with which they treat migration and border control issues, and this could shape future decisions on entry policies.

As the situation evolves, the impact of the new passport control system is becoming clearer, with Ryanair also highlighting potential delays at seven additional airports. For travelers looking to stay informed about these disruptions and their implications, a detailed overview of the affected locations can be found in our earlier report on flight delays across several European airports.