Statement on Dutch Supreme Court Decision Concerning Schiphol Airport

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) responded to a judgement from the Supreme Court in the Netherlands, which has upheld the original decision from the Amsterdam District Court that the ‘experimental regulation’ to reduce Schiphol’s capacity was not in compliance with the Balanced Approach to noise management.

“We welcome this decision from the Supreme Court, affirming the original decision of the Amsterdam District Court that the unilateral cuts to flight numbers at Schiphol were unlawful, and overturning the Court of Appeal. There is an internationally-agreed means of managing airport noise – the Balanced Approach – which protects the national and regional benefits of air connectivity while helping to mitigate noise impacts for local residents. We expect the new Dutch Government will respect today’s decision and proceed to apply the Balanced Approach, which is also enshrined in EU law and international treaties, with the utmost care with regards to Schiphol. Furthermore, we hope any other government thinking of disregarding the Balanced Approach will take note of this decision. It is a proven and successful process and should not be ignored,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Previous statements and background on this issue

3 March 2023 - Decision to mount legal challenge

5 April 2023 - Original court decision

7 July 2023 - Appeal court decision

Note also that while the appeal to the Supreme Court was underway, the Dutch government chose to reverse the cuts at Schiphol

Notes for Editors:

• IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some 330 airlines comprising over 80% of global air traffic.
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