The announcement of an ambitious Schiphol modernisation plan made official on 30 August by the airport's management, is based on a simple and honest observation: the Dutch hub is not - or is no longer - living up to passenger expectations. " Every day, our colleagues do their utmost for passengers. They make a difference, as demonstrated by the successful May and summer holidays. Unfortunately, they are not helped by the state of our infrastructure. Our infrastructure is the basis of our service, but it is currently far from what we want to offer our passengers as a quality airport in the Netherlands. ". This is the message sent by Pieter van Oord, CEO of the airport.
It will therefore cost six billion euros to Schiphol's management to usher in a new era for the airport's infrastructure. The modernisation plan will run from 2024 à 2029. It has already begun with the opening of new shops and restaurants in recent months. But, as airport management points out, " there's still a lot to do ". The roadmap includes Pier C, the baggage basement, climate control systems, escalators, aircraft parking stands and taxiways.
" While it is encouraging to see that our financial results are improving and our balance sheet is strong, our overall financial performance is not yet satisfactory. "warns Robert Carsouw, the airport's financial director. " Rising operating costs and a growing investment portfolio are putting a strain on our current and long-term cash flows. It is in everyone's interest that Schiphol once again becomes a high-quality airport with a solid infrastructure and excellent services for passengers and airlines. Our €6 billion investment plans for the next five years are more important than ever "says Robert Carsouw.
