Dutch F-35 fighter jets to train at Schiphol amid civilian flights
From January 27-28, four F-35 jets and a transport aircraft will conduct training at Schiphol Airport, ensuring military readiness during crises. Residents may experience temporary noise, but daily flights remain unaffected. The exercise highlights Schiphol’s role in national security.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | Tuesday 27 and Wednesday 28 January 2026 |
| Aircraft Involved | 4 F-35 fighter jets, 1 transport/refuelling aircraft (Multinational MRTT Unit) |
| Location | Schiphol Airport, Netherlands |
| Purpose | Training for safe military operations from civilian airports |
| Impact on Air Traffic | No disruption; integrated into regular operations |
| Noise Impact | Temporary noise possible in surrounding areas |
| Stakeholders Involved | Ministry of Defence, Schiphol, LVNL, Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management |
| Training Areas Post-Departure | Regular air force training zones |
The Ministry of Defence is responsible for ensuring the operational readiness of the Royal Netherlands Air Force, including the ability to deploy military aircraft from non-military locations during crises. Schiphol Airport, as a critical national infrastructure, collaborates with the Ministry to maintain resilience and preparedness for various scenarios.
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F-35s of the Royal Netherlands Air Force train at Schiphol
On Tuesday 27 and Wednesday 28 January, the Royal Netherlands Air Force will conduct training with four F-35 fighter jets and one transport aircraft from Schiphol Airport. During this exercise, the air force will practice how military flights can be carried out safely and responsibly from a civilian airport. For the Ministry of Defence, Schiphol partners, and society, it is important to be prepared for a potential crisis or conflict so that vital processes can continue to function, even when circumstances change. The exercise is temporary in nature and does not involve the permanent deployment of military aircraft at Schiphol.
Schiphol has been a home base connecting the Netherlands to the world for over a hundred years. As Schiphol plays a crucial role in the accessibility of the Netherlands, it is essential that this infrastructure remains robust and resilient, even in times of crisis or conflict. That is why Schiphol is working with the Royal Netherlands Air Force to create an environment prepared for various scenarios, without compromising on safety or quality. The training has been carefully planned and integrated into the airport’s daily operations, ensuring that regular air traffic can continue as usual.
Why this training is important
For the Ministry of Defence, it is essential that military aircraft are not solely dependent on fixed military air bases. By being able to operate from other locations such as Schiphol, the air force remains deployable when the situation demands it. In addition to the F-35s, one transport and refuelling aircraft from the Multinational MRTT Unit (MMU) will participate in the exercise. This unit provides air transport and in-flight refuelling for NATO aircraft. The exercise consists of multiple scheduled departures and arrivals, which will take place during the day on 27 and 28 January. After departure, the aircraft will proceed to the air force’s regular training areas.
Impact on the surrounding area
The exercise is being conducted in close coordination between the Ministry of Defence and Schiphol, in collaboration with the Netherlands Air Traffic Control (LVNL) and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management (I&W). Surrounding municipalities and relevant social and administrative parties have been informed in advance. The exercise has been carefully prepared and will be carried out under strict supervision. Noise from the flights may be noticeable in the surrounding area, but this is a temporary effect that occurs solely within the context of the exercise. Safety and consideration for the local community are top priorities.
We continue to build a strong, cohesive, and future-proof Netherlands. By training together with the Royal Netherlands Air Force, we strengthen our collective ability to operate safely and reliably under diverse circumstances.