Response from Schiphol to Government Decision – December 6, 2024

Schiphol aims to maintain a good balance between the airport and its surrounding environment. We support the government in this effort. Reducing noise pollution and strengthening the legal protection of local residents are key priorities in this regard. The legal safeguarding of these aspects in a new Airport Traffic Decree will provide certainty and clarity, which benefits everyone.

Through our announced airport charges for the period 2025–2027, we are substantially contributing to reducing nuisance. The use of the noisiest aircraft will become significantly more expensive, while operating the quietest aircraft will become more financially attractive. We believe this will have a substantial impact on the types of aircraft airlines choose to operate, especially for airlines without a base in Amsterdam. Based on our expertise, we have shared insights and calculations with the Ministry. These are partly informed by data Schiphol has received from airlines about changes to their fleets in response to our new tariffs.

There appears to be a difference between our insights and the Ministry's assumptions. We are keen to engage in discussions with the Ministry to better understand how they have arrived at their proposed adjusted package of measures. Schiphol firmly believes it remains crucial for the government to properly complete the Balanced Approach procedure so that its outcomes can be enshrined in new legislation.