Flight safety regulator ILT urges shutdown of solar park endangering pilots at Schiphol

The environmental permit for the solar park near Schiphol, whose panels reflect sunlight in a way that blinds pilots, should be revoked, according to the aviation authority of the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT). To this end, the authority has submitted a request to the municipality of Haarlemmermeer. The ILT Aviation Authority also believes that the municipality should take enforcement action to mitigate the risk to flight safety.

Schiphol was forced to close the often-used Polderbaan temporarily due to the issue earlier this year. The airport is expecting more issues to occur as a result of the solar panels in August.

For this reason, Schiphol has initiated a lawsuit against the owner of the solar park. Schiphol wants the party, De Groene Energie Corridor, to remove the solar panels. A ruling in this summary proceedings case is expected on Wednesday.

The ILT Aviation Authority can only take enforcement action against Schiphol itself, not against the municipality responsible for the environmental permit. In February, Schiphol was already reminded of its responsibility in this matter. Since discussions between the involved parties have so far not led to a solution, a formal enforcement request has now been submitted to the municipality.

Closing the Polderbaan again is not a suitable option, the regulator has stated. This runway is not only the most frequently used, but also causes the least noise disturbance.

The ILT Aviation Authority also believes there is a violation of the duty of care if no action is taken. According to the watchdog, anyone who knows or suspects that the panels pose a safety risk is obligated to "take all reasonably necessary measures" to prevent it.