Schiphol risks exceeding noise limits at two monitoring sites, inspectorate reports

Schiphol Airport risks exceeding noise limits at two monitoring locations, the Dutch aviation authority, Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT), reported Monday in its half-yearly review. By mid-2025, more than half of the airport’s allowed noise quota had already been used.

The areas at risk include a monitoring point north of the Buitenveldertbaan runway and a location on the border of Uithoorn and Aalsmeer. The ILT noted that the latter site faces a potential breach for the third consecutive year.

Aircraft are required to use runways that minimize noise impact on surrounding communities. However, if noise limits are exceeded at specific monitoring points, ILT is prohibited from taking enforcement action, according to ministerial directives. Earlier this year, the regulator warned that this limits protection for local residents.

Despite these potential noise breaches, Schiphol continues to meet national standards for flight numbers, emissions, noise overall, and safety. The half-year report covers the period from November 2024 through April 2025.

The ILT also found three instances of nighttime departures that deviated from assigned routes without valid justification. The airlines involved reportedly received warning letters.

In addition, KLM and Delta Air Lines were fined 5,000 euros and 2,500 euros, respectively, for unauthorized use of polluting auxiliary engines at Schiphol. The fines followed earlier enforcement measures, including mandatory payments of 2,500 euros per violation, capped at a total of 50,000 euros.