Germany LBA News

German Airports Prepare for Entry-Exit System Wait Times

Germany's Luftfahrt-Bundesamt (LBA) announced that the EU-wide Entry-Exit System (EES) for electronic recording of third-country nationals entering the Schengen area will be fully operational at German airports beginning 1 April 2026. The system, rolled out since 12 October 2025, replaces traditional passport stamps with digital biometric registration (fingerprints and facial images). Travelers are advised to expect potential wait times during peak travel periods and to plan additional time for border control procedures.

LBA Informs Passengers of EU Rights During Middle East Flight Disruptions

The German Federal Aviation Authority (LBA) published passenger rights guidance on 02.03.2026 in response to widespread flight disruptions caused by the Middle East security situation. The notice explains applicability of EU Regulation 261/2004, covering care obligations, rerouting/refund options, and distance-based compensation, while clarifying that extraordinary circumstances may exempt airlines from compensation payments. The LBA provides practical recommendations for affected travelers, including contact procedures for airlines and tour operators.

Ground Handling Declaration Deadline 27 March 2027

The German Federal Aviation Authority (LBA) is notifying ground handling service providers of their mandatory declaration obligation under Article 2 of Regulation (EU) 2025/20, falling within the scope of Regulation (EU) 2018/1139. The LBA, designated by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMV) for supervision under Article 3 of Regulation (EU) 2020/23, requests timely submission of declarations using the ORGH.DEC.100 Annex I form. The compliance deadline is 27 March 2027, after which affected ground handling services must submit declarations to the competent authority in the member state where their main business seat is located.