A rapid return of travelers and staff shortages at the airport caused major problems at Schiphol at the time. There were too few security guards to check all passengers in time, which resulted in long lines and travelers missing their planes. In addition, there were all kinds of problems with left-behind suitcases that were not taken on the right flights, piled up and sometimes weeks later still had not been reunited with their owner.
“It became clear to everyone in 2022 that things were not going well with baggage handling at Schiphol. That has to change,” says Harbers. Limiting the number of baggage handling companies would somewhat restrict competition between those companies. But it should benefit the working conditions of employees and the quality of services.
Six companies are now active at Schiphol in the handling of baggage, freight and mail. According to Harbers, there are relatively many compared to other European airports. He commissioned research that showed that the market for handling at Schiphol is too small for so many players.
The intention is to reduce the number of parties to three. But the decision only applies to companies that handle luggage from passenger planes. The freight sector is excluded, because a restriction here could cause logistical problems. The handling of private aircraft, for example, also remains out of the question.
It will take some time before the measure is noticeable in practice. According to the ministry, Schiphol can now start a European tender. That process is expected to take about a year, followed by a transition period during which parties can prepare for the changes.
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