Schiphol calls for action as solar panel glare continues to affect landings

The problem of glare from solar panels affecting landing aircraft near Haarlemmermeer remains unresolved, with Schiphol Airport expressing skepticism about proposed measures. While local officials believe the issue should subside by mid-March, Schiphol is not convinced that the disruption will end.

Schiphol’s concerns stem from unexpected glare issues on the Zwanenburgbaan runway. Although no problems were initially anticipated, pilots reported disturbances caused by sunlight reflecting off newly installed solar panels. The glare has forced Schiphol to restrict the use of the Polderbaan runway between 10 a.m. and noon on sunny days in recent weeks.

The airport considers the situation a safety risk, and current restrictions are set to remain in place until March 23, after which officials believe the sun’s position will have changed enough to reduce the glare, according to the Haarlemmermeer municipal government.

A key issue in the ongoing problem is the type of glass used in the solar panels. Regulations require panels near airports to feature "deeply textured glass," which has grooves to minimize sunlight reflection. However, the installed panels lack this feature. According to the Haarlemmermeer government, the manufacturer switched to a different type of panel after the original textured-glass model was discontinued. Instead, the new panels have an anti-reflective coating, though it remains unclear whether this is sufficient to prevent further disruptions.

The solar park near Haarlemmermeer is still under construction, but authorities have decided against halting the project. The local environmental agency advised that stopping construction would likely not resolve the issue, as the section of the solar farm responsible for most complaints is nearly complete. However, Schiphol reportedly pushed for a construction halt.