KLM Warns Schiphol Fee Hikes Will Raise Airfares

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has raised concerns over Amsterdam Schiphol Airport’s substantial increase in airline user charges, which are set to surge by 41% in 2025. The fee hikes are part of Schiphol’s broader plan to increase charges by 38.5% over the next three years, positioning the airport as one of Europe’s most expensive. KLM has warned that these rising costs will likely result in higher airfares for passengers as airlines pass on the additional expenses.

Schiphol’s Fee Hike Breakdown and Justifications

On October 31, Schiphol Airport announced that user fees would increase by 41% in 2025, followed by a 5% rise in 2026 and a 7.5% decrease in 2027. The final charges for 2026 and 2027 will be formalized in the coming years, as external factors and potential settlements may impact the rates. Schiphol cites several reasons for the fee hikes, including inflation, rising interest rates, and the need to recover from COVID-19-related financial losses. The additional revenue is intended to fund a EUR6 billion (USD6.5 billion) infrastructure improvement plan over the next five years, aimed at enhancing the airport’s facilities and services.

KLM’s Concerns Over Competitive Impact and Higher Airfares

KLM CEO Marjan Rintel criticized Schiphol’s decision, describing it as “unreasonable and unwise.” She stated that placing the full burden of setbacks and COVID-19 recovery on airlines jeopardizes Schiphol’s status as a leading international hub. “Schiphol will become the second most expensive airport in Europe, imposing a 41% fee hike next year on top of previous increases,” Rintel explained. KLM warned that these cost hikes will ultimately lead to higher ticket prices, impacting travelers and the Dutch economy.

By increasing fees, KLM argues that Schiphol risks reducing the airport’s competitiveness and weakening the Netherlands’ connectivity. This could affect tourism, business travel, and the country’s overall economic growth, as higher costs may deter travelers and business partners alike.

Schiphol’s Measures to Mitigate Fee Impact

In an effort to offset the impact on airlines, Schiphol announced a voluntary EUR100 million (USD108 million) contribution aimed at keeping fees manageable while maintaining operational capacity. The airport also introduced a policy to incentivize the use of quieter, modern aircraft by reducing charges for low-noise planes and increasing fees for older, noisier models. From 2025, certain noisier planes will be banned, and additional charges will apply to night flights to reduce noise pollution.

According to Robert Carsouw, CFO of Royal Schiphol Group, these fee adjustments are essential to improve airport quality, enhance passenger services, and support sustainable initiatives. “This significant fee increase is necessary for achieving the desired quality and sustainability goals at Schiphol, as well as improving conditions for airlines, passengers, and airport staff,” he commented.

KLM’s Support for Improvements, Concerns Over Affordability

While KLM agrees that Schiphol’s facilities require upgrades and supports the airport’s focus on reducing noise pollution, it remains critical of the financial burden placed on airlines. KLM noted that the current condition of Schiphol’s infrastructure and passenger services needs substantial improvement. Additionally, the airline supports Schiphol’s strategy to use differentiated fees as an incentive for quieter aircraft.

With these new charges set to take effect, travelers flying through Schiphol can expect increased ticket prices as airlines adjust to the rising costs. As Schiphol pursues its ambitious infrastructure and sustainability goals, KLM emphasizes that affordability for passengers and competitiveness in the aviation sector should remain top priorities.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com