KLM hit back at the Dutch government’s announcement that it will put a “green cap” on future aircraft movements at Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS), saying it will affect the airport’s status as a global hub.



The announcement by the Dutch government to cap annual aircraft movements at 440,000 from 2023 would lower AMS’s potential capacity from already achieved pre-pandemic levels and, according to KLM, would lower AMS’s capacity by 20% compared to the potential 540,000 annual movements anticipated in the future.

The Netherlands is aiming to decrease aviation emissions and noise at AMS. KLM said it was caught off guard by the announcement, which comes on the heels of AMS capping short-term capacity because of staffing shortages.


KLM said the new long-term cap was announced by the Dutch government “without prior deliberation and proper argumentation,” adding: “KLM has not received any written notification or clear plans. KLM looks forward to receiving further details and will, in the meantime, consider what steps it may take in response.”