More people suffer from Schiphol: "Officially, noise pollution does not exist"

In September, the Dutch Environmental Assessment Agency had already concluded that the number of people affected by background noise had increased by 47% in twelve years. This is due in part to the fact that the number of inhabitants has also increased due to the arrival of new housing in this area. If this figure is not taken into account, it is a growth of 31%.

Schiphol says, in response to figures from the GGD and the Federation of the Environment, that the number of people affected can be determined using various methods. "We use the method that the government has established.The methods may differ, but the goal is the same: to understand and reduce nuisance."

The airport supports the minister's plan to measure sound, in addition to calculating, give a larger role. Schiphol adds that the industry is already working to make flights quieter. This involves better landing procedures, the purchase of quieter aircraft and the plan to charge lower rates for quieter and higher aircraft for aircraft producing more noise .

Report on Environmental Impact

In November, the assessment of environmental impact (EIA) for Schiphol expected. This describes the environmental consequences of a possible growth of air traffic at Schiphol. The report is decisive for the discussion on the future of Schiphol, as all parties concerned – aviation sector, residents, environmental groups, municipalities and provinces – will draw arguments to determine their position.