Schiphol handled more than 9,100 fewer flights in the first half of this year compared to the same period last year. Thousands of flights were cancelled due to wintry weather, followed by air‑traffic restrictions linked to the war in the Middle East.
The number of flights to and from Schiphol fell by 4 percent in the first six months of 2026, totalling 223,597 aircraft movements. However, planes were much fuller. The average number of travellers per flight increased, which Schiphol says supports its expectations. The airport anticipated passenger numbers would keep rising even with the same number of aircraft movements. Forecasts indicate an increase of at least 90 million travellers per year by 2050.
Results
Schiphol’s revenues increased, and net profit rose to 207 million euros in the first half of the year, up from 201 million euros in the same period of 2025. However, investments led to a negative cash flow of 464 million euros. Schiphol is spending heavily on improving airport quality, investing a record 801 million euros in the first six months of the year.
Airport Quality
Chief Financial Officer Robert Carsouw added that Schiphol is investing more than ever in airport quality. “We are renewing our infrastructure and improving the travel experience and working conditions”, said CEO Pieter van Oord. “At the same time, we are working hard on a quieter and cleaner airport”.
To keep Dutch aviation strong, he says the airport must maintain the right balance between affordability and accessibility — which is why airlines received the temporary discount due to increased fuel prices. For now, Schiphol is spending more than it earns. “With a successful bond issuance, we raised the necessary additional financing”, the CFO confirmed.
@anp | NEWSBRAINPORT
