SCHIPHOL AIRPORT'S 747 BAN TOO SOON TO ADAPT FOR INDUSTRY
The Loadstar has reported on a proposed ban by the Dutch Government to restrict 747F flights at night at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport starting in 2025. The industry considers that this ban too soon to adapt to and could hinder air cargo operations.
In June 2022, the Dutch Government presented a package of measures aimed at reducing Schiphol Airport’s noise and environmental impact, including a significant reduction in the number of flights. Industry stakeholders and the European Commission expressed concerns about the proportionality and timing of these measures, leading the Dutch Government to halt its plan to reduce the annual flight limit. This decision was welcomed by CLECAT, as it risked jeopardising the EU’s internal aviation market, connectivity, and economy.
Last month, the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management released a new package of measures, which is now open for feedback. By November 2025, the maximum number of flights per year will be limited to between 460,000 and 470,000, with only 27,000 allowed at night. Starting in November 2025, aircraft such as the Boeing 747-400, which are considered very noisy, will not be allowed to land or take off between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM. More concerning is the possibility of a complete night-time closure by 2026.
Maarten van As, Managing Director of Air Cargo Netherlands, argued that these measures would harm the Dutch economy and noted that the industry had not been consulted in the decision-making process. Mr van As added that the proposed ban on 747 freighters and other noisy aircraft in 2025 does not provide enough time for fleet renewal. He pointed out that this ban would negatively impact several airlines at Schiphol Airport, as the necessary fleet renewal is not expected to occur until late 2026 or early 2027.
CLECAT fully supports Air Cargo Netherlands’ position, emphasising that the Dutch Government has a responsibility to consult with stakeholders early in the process on matters of such importance to the economy and connectivity of both the Netherlands and the EU.
Source: The Loadstar