Getlink has cautioned that technical challenges with the European Union’s new digital border management system could postpone the introduction of biometric checks for passengers traveling by car through the Channel Tunnel. The warning comes as transport operators across Europe continue adapting to the EU’s Entry/Exit System, a major modernization initiative designed to strengthen border security while digitally recording the movement of non-EU travelers.

Despite the software challenges, the company expects travel disruption to remain manageable and continues preparing for the system’s full implementation.

Software Stability Remains the Primary Challenge

Chief Executive Yann Leriche said the biometric component of the Entry/Exit System has not yet been fully implemented for passenger vehicle traffic because software supplied at the European level continues to experience stability issues.

According to management, the difficulties are not related to infrastructure at the Channel Tunnel terminals but rather to the underlying software platform supporting the new border control framework.

The Entry/Exit System became operational across the Schengen Area earlier this year and is intended to replace traditional passport stamping with a digital process that records biometric information and travel data. However, the complexity of integrating the system across multiple countries and transport operators has created implementation challenges.

Leriche acknowledged ongoing technical difficulties but emphasized that there is currently no immediate solution until the software becomes more reliable.

Investment Aims to Minimize Travel Disruptions

Getlink has invested approximately €80 million to prepare its terminals for the new border procedures, reflecting the company’s commitment to ensuring a smooth transition once the biometric system is fully operational.

Management noted that traffic through the Channel Tunnel has generally experienced relatively limited delays, with queues typically lasting between one and two hours. This compares favorably with significantly longer disruptions reported at some airports as border authorities implement the new procedures.

The company also expressed concern that negative publicity surrounding the Entry/Exit System, particularly in the United Kingdom where most of its leisure travelers originate, may create unnecessary anxiety among passengers despite operational conditions remaining largely under control.

Higher Earnings Outlook Reflects Operational Confidence

Alongside its operational update, Getlink raised its full-year earnings guidance, citing confidence that any disruption from the phased rollout of the Entry/Exit System will remain limited.

The company now expects annual earnings to exceed its previous forecast, indicating that management believes the business can continue performing well despite temporary implementation challenges associated with the new border controls.

Separately, Getlink announced legal action regarding a significant increase in its business rates imposed by the UK government. Management said it intends to allow time for discussions with the new government before beginning formal legal proceedings if no resolution is reached.

Looking ahead, investors and travelers will closely monitor the stability of the EU’s Entry/Exit System software as authorities continue rolling out biometric border controls across Europe. Successful implementation will be important for improving border security and travel efficiency, while further software delays could extend the transition period for transport operators serving cross-border passengers.