EU Border Rules Bring Long Queues to Malta Airport

A few weeks ago, The Times praised Malta International Airport as one of the best airports in Europe for passengers. However, the introduction of the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) for the Schengen Area is now creating lengthy delays at border control across many European airports, with airlines and airport operators warning that the system is causing serious disruption.

Although the Maltese media has paid little attention to the issue, Malta does not appear to have escaped its effects. Yesterday, a British tourist uploaded a TikTok video showing long queues at passport control at Malta International Airport, adding to a growing number of images and videos circulating on social media that highlight delays experienced by travellers.

Ryanair has already criticised the implementation of the new system, warning that it is creating unnecessary congestion at airports across the Schengen Area and calling on the European Commission to suspend or postpone parts of its implementation during the busy summer season. 

If these delays persist, they risk undermining the passenger experience at Malta International Airport and could have wider implications for Malta’s tourism industry, which depends heavily on efficient air connectivity.