Amsterdam Airport at a Glance: Schiphol’s Role as a Global Aviation Hub

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is the primary airport serving the Dutch capital and the busiest aviation hub in the Netherlands. It also ranks among the world’s most active airports in terms of international passenger traffic. The airport is located in Haarlemmermeer, approximately 21 km (13 miles) southwest of Amsterdam city center, and is efficiently connected to the city by rail and road.

Thanks to its advanced infrastructure, innovative technologies, and extensive passenger services, Schiphol Airport is often described as offering an almost “all-inclusive” travel experience.

The COVID-19 pandemic heavily affected airport operations. Passenger numbers dropped dramatically in 2020, reaching just 20.9 million travelers. However, traffic steadily recovered, and in 2024, Amsterdam Airport handled more than 66.8 million passengers and served 313 destinations worldwide. Despite this strong rebound, traffic levels remain slightly below pre-pandemic records.

Interesting fact: Schiphol Airport lies approximately three meters below sea level.

Airport Guide

Terminals, airlines, parking options, and passenger facilities are all designed to ensure smooth airport operations and a comfortable traveler experience.

  • Airport Name: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
  • IATA Code: AMS
  • ICAO Code: EHAM
  • Location: Haarlemmermeer, Netherlands
  • Time Zone: Central European Time (GMT+1)

Amsterdam Airport History

Schiphol’s history dates back to September 16, 1916, when it opened as a military airfield in the Haarlemmermeer area, which had previously been a lake. By 1917, it was already one of Europe’s largest airfields. After World War I, the airport gradually transitioned into civil aviation, and by 1923, the Dutch Air Force had completely withdrawn.

In its early years, the airport’s unpaved runways caused frequent flooding, earning Schiphol the nickname “Schiphol-les-Bains.” Preparations for the 1928 Olympic Games in Amsterdam led to significant modernization efforts, including paved runways.

During World War II, the airport was seized by German forces and renamed Fliegerhorst 561. It became a strategic military base and suffered extensive damage due to Allied bombings. Before retreating in 1945, German troops destroyed large parts of the airport infrastructure.

Despite the devastation, Schiphol recovered quickly. The first post-war aircraft landed in July 1945, and in 1949 the airport was officially designated as the Netherlands’ main international airport. A new terminal complex was built, following the visionary design of Jan Dellaert, which still influences the airport’s layout today.

The following decades marked rapid growth. Duty-free shops opened in 1957, the first rail station in 1978, and major terminal expansions throughout the 1980s and 1990s. In 1991, a new control tower was constructed, becoming the tallest in the world at the time. A sixth runway was added in 2003.

Schiphol also made aviation history by opening a Rijksmuseum branch inside the terminal in 2002 and launching the world’s first airport library in 2010.

Following the pandemic, Schiphol initiated new development plans for 2024–2029, including terminal renovations, new aircraft stands, taxiways, and the construction of Pier A. Today, Schiphol remains one of Europe’s busiest airports and a major global transit hub.

Amsterdam Airport Layout

Schiphol operates as a single-terminal airport, divided into three interconnected departure halls rather than separate terminals. The terminal is split into Schengen and non-Schengen zones and features more than 220 boarding gates and six runways.

The airport is fully equipped to handle large aircraft such as the Airbus A380. Future expansion plans include the addition of a new pier and further infrastructure upgrades.

Interesting fact: The Schiphol control tower, completed in 1991, was once the tallest air traffic control tower in the world.

Flights to and from Amsterdam Airport

Schiphol Airport serves domestic, European, and intercontinental destinations, acting as a major connecting hub for long-haul travel. KLM and its subsidiaries (KLM Cityhopper and KLM Cargo) operate from Schiphol as their main hub, alongside Martinair. Numerous international airlines also use AMS as a base of operations.

  • Domestic departures
  • International departures
  • Domestic arrivals
  • International arrivals

Connecting Passengers at Schiphol

If you are transiting through Schiphol Airport, procedures depend on your booking status:

  • With boarding pass: Proceed directly to your next departure gate.
  • Without boarding pass: Exit the secure area, collect luggage if required, complete check-in for your next flight, drop off baggage, and pass security again.

Tip: Always confirm whether your luggage is checked through to your final destination.

Required Travel Documents

  • Boarding pass
  • Valid passport or ID
  • Visa (if required)
  • Additional documents (ESTA, vaccination certificates, parental consent for minors, etc.)

Luggage Regulations

Luggage rules vary depending on the airline and ticket class:

  • Checked luggage: Subject to airline-specific weight limits and restricted items.
  • Hand luggage: Strict size and liquid restrictions apply.

Airlines at AMS Airport

Schiphol hosts a wide range of airlines, including full-service, low-cost, and cargo carriers. It serves as a hub or base for KLM, KLM Cityhopper, Martinair, TUI fly Netherlands, Corendon Dutch Airlines, and easyJet.

Due to government-imposed limits on annual flight movements and high landing fees, some low-cost carriers choose alternative airports.

Services and Amenities

Amsterdam Airport offers a comprehensive set of services designed to support all passenger groups, including travelers with reduced mobility, families, elderly passengers, and travelers with pets.

  • Shops and duty-free areas
  • Restaurants and cafés
  • Luggage storage and baggage wrapping
  • Workstations and business facilities
  • Medical services and pharmacies
  • Banks, ATMs, and currency exchange
  • Family areas and play zones
  • Lounges, spa, and shower facilities
  • Airport hotels
  • Free Wi-Fi

Parking at Schiphol Airport

Short-term and long-term parking options are available:

  • P1: Short-stay parking near the terminal
  • P3: Long-term parking with more than 15,000 spaces
  • Valet parking services

Transport Options from Schiphol

  • Airport taxis
  • Car rentals
  • Private airport transfers
  • Bus line 397
  • Direct train connections

Contact Information

Official Name: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

Address: Evert van de Beekstraat 202, 1118 CP Schiphol, Netherlands

Phone: 0900 0141 / +31 20 794 0800

Website: https://www.schiphol.nl/en/

The City of Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most vibrant capitals, known for its canals, historic architecture, museums, and nightlife. Often called the “Venice of the North,” the city blends Dutch Renaissance, Art Nouveau, and modern design.

From the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum to the Anne Frank House and Heineken Experience, Amsterdam offers attractions for every type of traveler. Its parks, cultural diversity, and unique atmosphere make it an unforgettable destination.