Schiphol security guards call off planned strike on Wednesday in deal with airport

Security guards called off a planned strike at Schiphol Airport on Wednesday after progress was made on their complaints about working conditions at the airport. Negotiators reached agreements with Schiphol on several points, averting the labor action, the FNV union said.

Earlier this year, Schiphol reduced the number of contracted security firms from five to three. Many security guards have since complained about excessive workload.

Security guards have held several brief strikes recently which caused increased waiting times at security checkpoints. This was part of a campaign to demand improvements.

The FNV said agreements have been reached regarding several points, including break times, the use of part-time workers, paid leave, the workload that female security guards face, bathroom breaks, and working in high temperatures.

The deal provides security guards with a minimum of 48 hours of continuous rest time after five or more consecutive working days, the union said. Progress was also made in several other points.

In some cases, the improvements will be implemented immediately. The entire deal must take effect no later than the April and May school holiday in 2027.