Friday, July 12, 2024 The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has addressed the recent decision by the Supreme Court of the Netherlands. The court upheld the original ruling from the Amsterdam District Court, determining that the ‘experimental regulation’ aimed at reducing capacity at Schiphol Airport does not align with the Balanced Approach to noise management. This decision marks a significant moment in the ongoing discussion about airport capacity and noise management in one of Europe’s busiest hubs.
The Supreme Court’s ruling reinforces the need for regulatory measures to comply with established frameworks, ensuring a fair balance between operational efficiency and environmental considerations. IATA’s response highlights the importance of adhering to international standards and practices, emphasizing that any measures to manage airport noise must be both effective and compliant with global guidelines. The organization continues to advocate for solutions that support sustainable growth in the aviation sector while addressing environmental concerns.
“We welcome this decision from the Supreme Court, affirming the original decision of the Amsterdam District Court that the unilateral cuts to flight numbers at Schiphol were unlawful, and overturning the Court of Appeal. There is an internationally-agreed means of managing airport noise – the Balanced Approach – which protects the national and regional benefits of air connectivity while helping to mit.
