Speculation is mounting that a further delay to the introduction of the entry-exit system (EES) could be on the cards.
The European Commission said in August that EES would be launched on November 10.
An update is expected to be made by the European Commission today (Thursday) following two previous delays.
The Times reported that several sources expect a “soft launch” of the scheme with airports able to turn off the checks in the event of overcrowding.
Meanwhile, The Guardian reported EU diplomat sources as saying there was very little chance that any version of the new entry-exit system would be ready to be implemented in four weeks’ time.
It suggested that EU capitals will be briefed on contingency plans at a meeting of home affairs ministers in Luxembourg, with alternative options expected to be tabled.
One would involve a phased launch of the whole scheme port by port and airport by airport over months or even a year.
Concerns over the implementation of the scheme were said to have been raised by France, Germany and the Netherlands.
EES would require non-EU citizens to have their fingerprints or photos taken before entering the Schengen area.
UK travel trade bodies are still awaiting confirmation of the November 10 target date for the scheme to be introduced.
EasyJet chief executive John Lundgren said on concerns about the introduction of the scheme at the Abta Travel Convention in Greece: “The question is have they planned and have they mitigation plans in place.
“We’re urging everyone to plan. But probably there will be disruption.”
Pictured: Frankfurt International airport, credit Hadrian/Shutterstock