Schiphol Airport and KLM have welcomed advisory guidance from the Council of State (Raad van State) regarding new regulations designed to reduce noise pollution around the airport. Both the airport operator and the airline described the advice issued on Monday as an important step towards establishing the new framework on paper.
The cabinet intends for the rules to take effect from 1 November. Under the proposal, flight movements at Schiphol will initially be capped at 478,000 per year, with a phased return to 500,000 flights planned for a later stage. The maximum number of flights could automatically increase if noise calculations demonstrate a quieter environment around the airport. However, the Council of State stressed that these reductions must be guaranteed before any increase occurs.
Schiphol said the advice brings stronger legal protection for both local residents and the aviation industry. The operator added that it remains committed to balancing its operations with local environmental concerns and encouraging the use of quieter aircraft.
KLM also voiced support for the government’s efforts to finalise the Airport Traffic Decree (Luchtvaartverkeersbesluit). The airline noted that the decree provides clarity for all parties involved by offering long-term prospects for aviation alongside reduced noise pollution for residents.
In contrast, environmental group Nature and Environment Federation of North Holland criticised the decision. Director Sijas Akkerman noted that this marks the third time in under six months that Infrastructure and Water Management Minister Vincent Karremans has faced criticism over airport policy. Akkerman pointed out that the Council of State annulled a previous version of the decree in March, while the Environmental Impact Assessment Commission concluded in May that supporting environmental studies were inadequate. He added that the latest advisory report once again highlighted sharp criticism of a poorly substantiated cabinet decision.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
