Long queues likely at Schiphol on day 2 of new security; Hundreds missed flights Monday

Schiphol cannot rule out long queues at security again on Tuesday, as was the case on Monday. “Based on the developments we witnessed [Monday] morning, we do not yet dare to say what the definitive situation will be on Tuesday,” a spokesperson told ANP. The airport switched to a new security setup on Monday.

Hundreds of people missed their flights on Monday as long queues formed at security, according to NOS. At several departure halls, people were waiting far behind the check-in counters.

The Schiphol spokesperson stressed that the airport has scheduled sufficient staff for Tuesday based on the expected number of passengers. “We have a clear picture of the security personnel staffing levels. Extra staff are on standby to step in if necessary,” the spokesperson stated.

On its website, Schiphol warns that Tuesday will be a crowded day at the airport, though it did not specify a reason. “We expect long queues at Departures. We expect you will have to wait longer than normal,” the airport wrote.

Since Monday, Schiphol has been working with three security companies instead of five. New companies have been established in which Schiphol also holds an interest. The new approach was intended to give Schiphol more control over security and prevent long queues extending outside departure halls, as happened during major staff shortages in the summer of 2022.

As a result of the new setup, nearly half of the 5,000 security guards have transferred to a new employer.

“We experienced a difficult start-up for the new security organization due to a combination of circumstances, particularly unexpected understaffing of security guards and IT problems in the morning, which had an impact throughout the day,” Schiphol said.

Just like on Monday, Schiphol advised travelers to arrive at the airport on time on Tuesday. For flights within Europe, this means two hours before departure. For intercontinental flights, it is three hours. “This will give travelers sufficient time for check-in and security checks.”

The airport also urged travelers to keep an eye on the latest information on Schiphol’s website and from their airline.