Under pressure from the US and EU, the Dutch government has increased its flight cap at Schiphol Airport to address concerns related to emissions and noise pollution.
Last year, the airport proposed reducing annual flights from 500 000 to 460 000. However, the proposal met substantial resistance from airlines, IATA, the US, and the EU. As a result, Schiphol increased on flight caps. Agreeing to permit an additional 13,000 flights during the peak summer season of 2024. This adjustment contrasts with the initial proposal, which set a cap of 280,000 flights for the same period.
Schiphol has revised its 2024 aviation plans, allowing a total of 483,000 flights with a summer season allocation of 293,000 flights from March 31 to October 26. Airlines’re required to collaborate in alleviating peak-hour pressure, and Schiphol’s committed to exploring pollution-combatting alternatives with active airline involvement.
Patricia Vitalis, Executive Director of Operations at Royal Schiphol Group. Underscored the importance of a collaborative approach involving the aviation sector and government partners to diminish peak traffic. Ensuring both safety and convenience for passengers.
In response to this call, KLM committed its support, emphasizing a dedication to consistent and predictable operations. The airline detailed concrete measures. Such as utilizing its quietest aircraft during nighttime operations. And refraining from passenger services between 00:00 and 06:00, aimed at playing a role in reducing pollution.
The Royal Schiphol Group revealed ongoing discussions with airlines, facilitated by an independent slot coordinator, to evaluate ways to decrease the number of flights. Plans include strategizing morning capacity peaks from 68 to 65 arrivals per hour. Consultations for the winter season (October 27 to March 30) are expected to follow later in 2024.
