Tourists suffer hours-long queues at Athens airport due to new EU border checks

In Greece, tourists have been experiencing significant delays at Athens International Airport due to the implementation of the European Union's new Entry/Exit System (EES), which was fully deployed for third-country nationals on March 30, 2026. Since its launch, the EES has caused chaos at border controls across Europe, leading to lengthy waits, missed flights, and considerable frustration among travelers. Reports indicate that passengers are now advised to arrive at the airport at least two and a half hours before their scheduled departure to accommodate the extended check-in, security screening, and passport control processes.

The situation at Athens airport has been particularly dire, with travelers reporting waits of over an hour to move just a short distance. One traveler recounted their experience, stating they had been stuck for over an hour and had only moved about 100 feet, describing the scene as a nightmare. This has led to warnings for Britons and other travelers to arrive up to four hours early to avoid missing their flights. The chaos at Athens is not an isolated incident; other European airports, including Tivat Airport in Montenegro and Kos Airport in Greece, have also reported similar issues with long lines and delays.

The introduction of the EES has been met with criticism as it has disrupted travel plans for millions during the peak summer holiday season. Many passengers have expressed their dissatisfaction with the new system, sharing their experiences on social media and travel forums. The situation has raised concerns about the efficiency of the new border checks and the preparedness of airports to handle the increased processing times.

As the summer travel season continues, the impact of the EES on airport operations remains a pressing issue. Travelers are urged to stay informed about the situation and to plan accordingly to ensure they can navigate the new requirements without significant delays. The Daily Mail has reached out to Athens International Airport for further comments on the ongoing situation, but the reports of lengthy queues and missed flights continue to dominate discussions among travelers.