Saturday, 15 March 2025
The European Commission has adopted a decision evaluating the Netherlands’ plan to implement noise reduction measures at Schiphol Airport. This initiative aligns with the EU’s Zero Pollution Action Plan, which aims to reduce by 30% the number of people affected by chronic transport noise by 2030.
Under the Dutch Noise Action Plan 2024–2029, the government seeks to decrease by 20% the number of residents and homes exposed to aircraft noise in the vicinity of the airport. To achieve this, the plan proposes cutting the annual flight limit from 500,000 to 478,000 and reducing nighttime flights from 32,000 to 27,000.
In line with the Balanced Approach process, the Commission assessed the plan to ensure that the proposed measures are cost-effective, non-discriminatory, and proportionate. While the Dutch authorities have largely adhered to the required procedures, the Commission identified some shortcomings. A key concern is that the plan focuses exclusively on commercial aviation, leaving out general and business aviation, even though these segments also contribute to noise pollution.
Another issue is the limited consideration of fleet renewal as a means to mitigate noise. The Commission noted that the plan disregards the natural shift in the aviation industry toward quieter aircraft, a transition already taking place due to technological advancements and industry trends. The Netherlands has not provided sufficient evidence to justify this omission or explain its relevance to Schiphol Airport.
Moreover, the plan does not fully explore noise-reducing flight procedures, such as advanced landing and navigation techniques, which could further minimize disruptions for local communities.
The Dutch authorities are now expected to review the Commission’s decision and clarify their next steps before implementing the proposed measures.
