The Polderbaan Runway at Schiphoil will remain unavailable for landing aircraft during sunny weather between 10:00 and 12:00* for the next two weeks. This joint decision was made by Schiphol, Air Traffic Control the Netherlands (LVNL), easyJet, and KLM. The temporary measure (more details in the original message below) has been extended until Sunday, April 6, 2025.
We are extending the measure because, at this moment, there is no short-term solution available from the municipality of Haarlemmermeer, and thorough additional investigations have shown that there is impaired visibility for pilots due to glare over a longer period.
*This applies to winter time. When daylight saving time starts, the Polderbaan will be unavailable from 11:00 to 13:00.
From Tuesday 4 March, the Polderbaan Runway at Schiphol will be temporarily
unavailable for landing aircraft in sunny weather between 10:00 and 12:00. This is due
to glare from solar panels below the approach route, obstructing pilots' visibility. To
ensure safety, Air Traffic Control the Netherlands (LVNL), KLM, easyJet and Schiphol
were obliged to take this joint decision.
Every day, based on the weather forecast, it will be determined whether the measure is
necessary. The use of the measure is being kept to a minimum, because moving
landings to other runways such as the Zwanenburgbaan or Buitenveldertbaan affects
the noise situation in the surrounding area.
The aviation sector has previously held discussions with the municipality of
Haarlemmermeer on the placement of solar panels near Schiphol. The sector indicated
that special glass, which absorbs rather than reflects sunlight, is necessary for flight
safety.
The municipality of Haarlemmermeer and the owner of the solar park are now working
in consultation with the aviation sector to find a permanent solution. This measure will
apply until 23 March, or earlier if a structural measure is available.
Safety always comes first for Schiphol and the aviation sector. We understand that this
adjustment will affect the surrounding area, and we will keep local residents informed
of developments.