Eindhoven Airport Business Jet Ban Takes Effect as Emissions Cut
The long-announced ban on business aircraft at Eindhoven Airport officially took effect on January 1, 2026, marking a significant shift in airport policy aimed at reducing carbon dioxide emissions and aircraft noise. The restriction, first unveiled in November 2023, forms part of a broader environmental strategy targeting a 30% reduction in CO₂ emissions and noise impact at the airport.
Since the measure came into force, ch-aviation research indicates that several business aircraft previously based at Eindhoven have been relocated to other airports in the Netherlands. Among the displaced aircraft is a Bombardier Global 5000 managed by FLYINGGROUP, which is now based at Rotterdam The Hague Airport. A Legacy 500 operated by ASL Group has shifted its primary operations to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, while a Legacy 600 managed by JetNetherlands—also part of the ASL Group—has likewise been stationed at Rotterdam.
The relocations highlight the immediate operational impact of the ban on Netherlands-based business aviation operators, many of whom had relied on Eindhoven for its proximity to industrial hubs and comparatively uncongested operating environment. ch-aviation contacted FLYINGGROUP, ASL Group, and Exxaero to seek comment on how operators are adapting to the new restrictions and whether mitigation measures are being considered, but no responses had been received at the time of publication.
The ban applies to most business jets, effectively excluding them from regular operations at Eindhoven Airport. Commercial airline flights, general aviation activity permitted under specific conditions, and military operations are not affected by the measure. Eindhoven continues to function as a joint-use civil and military airport, hosting several aircraft operated by the Royal Netherlands Air Force, including a Gulfstream G650(ER) used for VIP and government transport.
Alongside the business aviation restriction, Eindhoven Airport has also implemented a cap on total annual aircraft movements. The limit has been set at 41,500 flights per year, slightly above the originally proposed ceiling of 40,500 movements. Airport authorities say the cap is intended to balance operational demand with environmental and community concerns, particularly noise exposure in surrounding residential areas.
The Eindhoven ban is among the most restrictive measures targeting business aviation in Europe and reflects a growing trend among regional airports to prioritise environmental objectives over private jet activity. For operators, the policy has reinforced the importance of alternative hubs such as Rotterdam and Amsterdam, while raising broader questions about access, sustainability, and the future role of business aviation at secondary European airports.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com