With the completion of the balanced approach procedure, the cabinet has once again taken an important step in reducing noise pollution around Schiphol. The results are being recorded today in the Airport Traffic Decision (LVB). This publication is accompanied by a new approach to reducing the remaining noise pollution. Minister Madlener is adjusting the noise target so that all new and quieter aircraft can start counting towards achieving these goals from November 2025.

This way, not only is noise nuisance addressed, but there is also room for controlled growth of Schiphol in the future. If, after achieving the agreed 20%, new noise space arises again, for example due to quieter aircraft, this noise space will be divided 50-50 between the airport and local residents.

The balanced approach procedure has led to a maximum of 478,000 flight movements per year starting from November 1, 2025, of which a maximum of 27,000 night flights. With this, the cabinet has taken an important step in reducing noise pollution and balancing the economic interests of Schiphol with the noise nuisance experienced around the airport.

Through the chosen policy change for both the remaining part of the noise agreements and the period thereafter, all investments from the aviation sector after November 2025 can contribute to achieving the noise targets. The cabinet is thereby fulfilling the wish of the House (motion De Groot, VVD). The policy change will also be reported to the European Commission.

The maximum number of flight movements resulting from the balanced approach procedure will be recorded in the Airport Traffic Decision (LVB). This interim step is necessary to implement the measures in November. This allows Schiphol to determine the capacity distribution of the airport for the upcoming winter season. The next step in strengthening the balance between Schiphol and the living environment is a more comprehensive amendment to the LVB. Once that has happened, anticipatory enforcement can be terminated. This will restore the legal position of local residents.

The cabinet remains committed to a noise reduction of a total of 20%. For the first 15%, the European balanced approach procedure has been followed and completed. Today, the cabinet has taken an important next step to strengthen the legal position of local residents around Schiphol and to provide the aviation sector with future prospects. Finally, binding agreements are also being made with the aviation sector regarding the use of quieter aircraft at night, fewer night flights, and fleet renewal.