KLM and Transavia Challenge New Noise Reduction Proposals at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and its subsidiary, Transavia Airlines, have expressed significant concerns over the Dutch government’s latest noise reduction measures for Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. The proposed plan, announced by Infrastructure and Water Management Minister Mark Harbers on May 24, includes stringent restrictions such as further reducing night flight caps, banning large aircraft at night, and introducing daytime rest periods for two runways.

The government’s proposal aims to address noise pollution issues highlighted by a March 20 court ruling from The Hague, which mandated greater consideration for local residents’ interests. This ruling came after Stichting Recht op Bescherming tegen Vliegtuighinder, a lobby group advocating for protection against aircraft noise, successfully argued that the government had violated the European Convention on Human Rights by not adequately shielding residents from noise.

Key elements of the updated noise reduction package include:

• Replacing noisier aircraft with quieter models starting November 2024.
• Reducing the maximum number of night flight movements from 32,000 to 27,000 starting in 2025.
• Closing two runways that have seen increased traffic from 1300L to 1500L.
• Implementing higher fees for noisier aircraft and banning the noisiest types, such as the B747-400, during night hours from 2300L to 0700L.
• Encouraging airlines to renew their fleets with quieter aircraft.

Additionally, the cabinet is contemplating a partial night closure by November 2026, pending the results of an impact assessment due this summer. If the night-time closure is deemed impractical, alternative measures will be considered.

Transavia has voiced its dissatisfaction with the further reduction in night flights, stating that it could cause “irreversible damage” to its business model and the sector at large. The airline criticized the lack of substantive consultation prior to the announcement of these measures and highlighted the uncertainty caused by ongoing cabinet negotiations that could lead to changes in aviation policy.

KLM, while acknowledging that some aspects of the proposal align with its own noise reduction initiatives, argued that parts of the package are detrimental and disproportionate. Specifically, KLM criticized the blanket ban on certain aircraft types starting in 2025, noting that it has already ordered newer, quieter aircraft expected to be delivered in 2026, which would not be operational in time to comply with the new regulations.

Both airlines have emphasized the need for a balanced approach that aligns with European Union guidelines, which prioritize noise reduction over operational cutbacks. They argue that the proposed measures could lead to retaliatory actions against Dutch airlines abroad, question the legal feasibility of the proposals, and warn of potential negative impacts on the Netherlands’ status as a major trading nation.

The ongoing debate highlights the complex challenge of balancing environmental concerns with the economic and operational needs of airlines and underscores the significant impact governmental regulations can have on the aviation industry.