KLM Welcomes Increased Flight Capacity at Schiphol Airport Amid Tight Preparation Timeline

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has expressed its satisfaction with Amsterdam Schiphol Airport’s recent decision to allow 483,000 aircraft movements in 2024, despite the tight preparation period. The airport’s announcement on December 21 indicated that this increase is contingent on alleviating peak hour congestion.

Responding to this development, KLM highlighted the opportunity it now has to further its recovery post-pandemic. The airline emphasized the importance of stable and predictable operations for both customers and employees. However, it noted the challenge of having only three months for preparations, a significant reduction from the usual six months. KLM assured its commitment to manage the allocated flight numbers effectively.

Schiphol’s statement on the “conditional relief of peak pressure” in 2024 detailed plans for accommodating 293,000 flights during the summer season (March 31 to October 26), provided peak times are managed efficiently. This decision came after a five-week period of capacity reassessment for the summer season, following the suspension of an “experimental scheme” to reduce flight movements.

The Dutch government had initially proposed a cut in flight movements at Schiphol starting March 31, 2024, but later decided to delay this reduction. However, it remains committed to a long-term reduction beyond the second phase. Several airlines, including KLM and the International Air Transport Association (IATA), had previously announced legal action against the government’s unilateral decision to cap flights.

Schiphol, after consultations with Dutch air traffic control and other authorities, concluded that a limited reduction at peak times is necessary for safe and stable operations. Airlines have agreed to assist in this endeavor.

The airport expects around 433,000 flights in 2023, with the number for the next summer season being higher than the previously announced 280,000. This increase stems from the suspension of the experimental scheme that had set an annual total of 460,000 flights.

Patricia Vitalis, the executive director of operations at Schiphol, emphasized the need for safe and responsible flight operations, which requires managing peak hour traffic. The independent slot coordinator will now work with airlines to reduce flight numbers during these peak hours, ensuring safe and pleasant travel experiences at Schiphol.