Tourism Under Pressure: Manos Konsolas Calls for Immediate Action
Dodecanese MP Manos Konsolas has raised concerns over growing delays at Greek airports and border crossings affecting travelers from non-Schengen countries, warning that the situation could damage Greece’s tourism industry if left unresolved.
In a parliamentary intervention addressed to the Ministries of Infrastructure & Transport and Citizen Protection, Konsolas highlighted problems linked to the implementation of the new Entry/Exit System (EES), which replaces passport stamping with biometric identification procedures, including facial images and fingerprint collection.
According to the MP, long queues and processing delays are already being reported at airports and border checkpoints, creating concerns ahead of the peak summer season. He stressed that visitors from key tourism markets such as the United States, Canada and Australia could be discouraged by lengthy waiting times and complicated entry procedures.
Konsolas noted that more than one million American travelers passed through Athens International Airport last year, while additional flights from the United States are expected this year, making efficient border management even more critical.
While welcoming the decision to exempt British travelers from the new biometric checks and continue using traditional passport stamping procedures, he argued that broader measures are necessary to prevent disruption during the busy tourism months.
Konsolas’ Three Proposals
- Temporary reactivation of traditional passport stamping during periods of exceptionally high traffic.
- An information campaign through Greek consulates promoting the “Travel to Europe” digital application for third-country nationals.
- Additional staffing, police officers, border guards and technical equipment at airports and border crossings.
The Dodecanese MP warned that delays are likely to intensify during July and August unless preventive measures are taken, potentially affecting both air and road tourism across the country.
