In a bid to streamline travel across the Channel, Eurostar CEO Gwendoline Cazenave revealed that an innovative app designed to ease border crossings for British citizens will not be operational in time for the implementation of a new EU border scheme.
The long-awaited Entry-Exit System (EES), slated for launch in October, mandates that non-EU citizens register their fingerprints and a photo upon entry and exit from EU territory.
The envisioned app aimed to enable passengers to complete this process remotely, minimizing queues and delays for UK travelers. However, with its development lagging, Eurostar is bracing for on-site checks at stations instead.
The EES represents a shift away from traditional passport stamping, aiming to enhance oversight of individuals entering and departing the EU.
Nonetheless, concerns have been raised regarding potential bottlenecks at key transit points such as the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel terminals, where French border police conduct exit checks for UK-bound travelers.
Gwendoline Cazenave outlined Eurostar’s proactive measures in anticipation of the impending changes. Over 30 kiosks are being installed at London’s St Pancras station to facilitate the transition to EES, with an emphasis on optimizing customer flow and providing adequate staffing and space.
While the app was envisaged as a pivotal tool for smoother border crossings, its delayed readiness has prompted Eurostar to focus on station-based solutions.
Despite assurances from EU authorities regarding the implementation of EES without the app, Eurostar remains optimistic about its eventual deployment.
Forecasts suggest that the Port of Dover, constrained by limited space and high traffic volumes, may face significant queueing challenges post-EES introduction.
Industry stakeholders have voiced concerns, with a P&O Ferries director advocating for further delays to the IT system rollout.
In response to the forthcoming changes, Eurotunnel’s parent company, Getlink, is investing in expanded processing facilities at Folkestone and Calais to accommodate increased scrutiny and ensure smoother border operations.
While Eurostar experienced a sharp decline in passenger numbers and revenue during the pandemic, signs of recovery have emerged, with figures returning to pre-Covid levels by the end of last year.
Anticipation is high for a resurgence in travel demand, with up to two million passengers expected during the Paris Olympics this summer.
Eurostar’s partnerships with national Olympic teams, including Team GB, underscore its commitment to supporting international sports events and fostering cross-border connections.
Despite higher ticket prices compared to air travel, Eurostar emphasizes the unique advantages of its service, delivering passengers directly to city centers and promoting sustainable travel alternatives.
As London-Paris ticket sales surged threefold upon release last November, Eurostar remains confident in its appeal to travelers seeking convenience and environmental consciousness in their journeys.
As the deadline for the EES implementation draws near, stakeholders across the Channel are bracing for potential disruptions while striving to adapt and innovate in the face of evolving border control measures.
This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
