The business world, logistics sector and, above all, travellers choose for KLM, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and the Netherlands partly on account of the many destinations served via the hub. This sprawling network is now under pressure due to the Dutch government’s plans to reduce operational capacity at Schiphol. The cabinet has announced plans to pursue further cutbacks in aircraft movements at Schiphol to reduce noise and CO₂ emissions.

KLM shares the ministerial goal of reducing noise and CO₂ emissions. However, KLM argues that reduced airport capacity will benefit neither travellers, nor the broader network, nor the Netherlands in general. Moreover, it restricts the earning capacity of airlines wanting to invest in sustainability. Fleet renewal offers a better alternative than capacity reduction. It will ensure a greater reduction in noise and emissions and will allow travellers to keep flying. This will enable us to strike a better balance in the interests of Schiphol, the environment, the surrounding community and travellers. We would like to discuss this alternative with the Dutch government.