Amsterdam-Schiphol, still too expensive for professionals?

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol announced last Monday that it plans to abandon its plan to increase its airport fees by 5% in 2026 after discussions with airlines.

Schiphol, one of Europe’s busiest airports, has already increased its fees charged to airlines by 41% this year as part of a three-year plan to finance new investments at the airport.

The increase in these fees is also intended to reduce noise pollution, particularly by introducing additional charges for night flights.

« We understand that the increase in fees in 2025 has a significant impact on airlines, » the financial director said in a statement.

« At the same time, Schiphol is performing well financially, and some airlines consider it too expensive.

That is why we are discussing a freeze for 2026, » she added.

The airport said it is in discussions with the airlines and will make a formal decision on fees by the end of October.

A voluntary contribution from Schiphol would offset the planned increase, made possible by cost control and efficiency measures, the airport added.

Last October, KLM CEO Marjan Rintel described the 41% increase in fees planned for this year as « unjustified and irrational, » adding that it would lead to higher ticket prices and weaken Schiphol’s international competitiveness.