Channel Tunnel operator says EU software issues could delay biometric checks

Channel Tunnel operator Getlink warned on July 23 that EU software issues could delay the biometric phase of the Entry/Exit System (EES) for car passengers beyond September 6. CEO Yann Leriche said the biometric component for passenger vehicles has not yet been implemented and that software supplied at the EU level is not fully stable. The EES became fully operational across the Schengen area in April, and the rollout has raised concerns among airline groups and British authorities about peak-holiday travel disruption. Getlink said it invested €80 million ($91 million) to prepare its terminals, with queues typically limited to one or two hours. The firm, which runs the tunnel until 2086, also raised full-year earnings guidance to €835 million–€870 million from €820 million–€860 million, assuming only limited disruption.