(March 2026)

There has been a lot of confusion and misinformation surrounding the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), as well as years of delays in implementation.  However, every traveler entering the Schengen Area after April 10th will have their entry and exit tracked electronically in the EES.  At the same time, conducting an advanced check on the visa status of visa-required travelers (querying the EES system) will become mandatory.

Flight Pro International (FPI) has been working closely with eu-LISA for over four years, and our guidance is based on direct communication with them.  Despite various sources claiming that private operators are exempt from the EES, it is not that simple.  While the EU regulation uses the term “Carrier,” both the European Commission and eu-LISA have repeatedly made it clear that the EES (and future system enhancements) is intended for any professional operator that brings travelers into the EU/Schengen Area.

Rick Snider, FPI’s Director of Contracts & Compliance, had this to say:

• “First, no traveleris exempt from the EES.  While a private pilot flying themselves in their aircraft can be exempt from querying the system in advance, their entry and exit will still be recorded in the EES. 
• Second, every country in the EU implements EU regulations by enacting local laws. This inevitably leads to inconsistencies in the application and enforcement of the rules.  The best way to avoid potential issues is to participate and remain compliant at all times. 
• And finally, querying the system provides you with useful information about your passengers’ travel status. While the EES only checks for single and double entry visas, future enhancements will check for electronic travel authorizations for visa-free travelers and other types of visas.”

Only aircraft operators that have registered can query the system, and FPI can help (see eu-LISA Carrier Registration).  It does take a few days to complete the process, so register now before queries are mandated and before the busy season in Europe begins.

Don’t let the new EES deter your future EU travel plans. Get in touch with FPI and learn how to ease your logistics with eu-LISA.

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To learn more about FPI, FPC, or regarding the Compliance, Operations, Regulatory, and other Special Services Network (SSN) teams, please contact our Operations staff here at Flight Pro International.

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