Amsterdam Airport (AMS)

Amsterdam Airport: a Glance at the Busy Schiphol Airport

Amsterdam International Airport, or Schiphol Airport as it is commonly known, is the main airport in Amsterdam and the busiest aviation hub in the Netherlands, as well as one of the world’s most occupied airports in terms of international passenger traffic. Located approximately 21km/13 miles from the city center in the district of Haarlemmermeer, the airport is well-connected to the city of Amsterdam. Overall, with its high-tech features and its full-service amenities, Amsterdam Airport is considered to offer its travelers an “all-inclusive traveling experience”.

Handling daily flights to and from all over the world, Schiphol Airport hosts a bulk of airlines, from international air carriers to domestic and low-cost providers. In fact, it is a base airport for KLM and KLM CityHopper, as well as a key hub for Corendon Dutch Airlines, TUI fly Netherlands, Martinair, and EasyJet. However, the governmentally-implied restriction concerning the annual number of aircraft flying to or departing from AMS Airport is responsible for the airport’s high landing fees. Schiphol Airport is a relatively expensive airport. Thus, some low-cost airlines are discouraged from operating at Amsterdam Airport.

Interesting Fact: Amsterdam International Airport actually lies three meters below the sea!

Amsterdam Airport’s Layout

Even though consisting of one terminal building, Schiphol Airport splits into 3 three Departures halls, informally known as terminals, despite not being separate. Conversely, the three halls are interconnected. The Amsterdam airport terminal, basically, is divided into a Schengen and a non-Schengen area. What’s more, it has 223 boarding gates and 6 runways while having the necessary facilities to accommodate Airbus A380. In the near future, a fourth “terminal” is expected to be added to the airport’s complex, along with a new pier and new runways. 

Interesting Fact: The AMS air traffic control tower was built in 1991. Back then, it was the tallest in the world.

FAQs

What is the main airport in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam International Airport is the main airport in Amsterdam as well as the leading Dutch airport. Moreover, it is listed among the busiest airports in international passenger traffic globally and is overall considered one of the most important European aviation hubs.

Does Amsterdam have 2 airports?

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is the only airport serving the area. It lies in the district of Haarlemmermeer, within a 21km distance from the heart of Amsterdam. 

What is the airport code for Amsterdam?

Amsterdam International Airport, the one and only airport handling flights from and to Amsterdam, has the IATA airport code AMS. Moreover, its ICAO code is EHAM.

How far is Amsterdam Airport from city center?

Amsterdam International Airport is about 21km away from Amsterdam city center. Thus, passengers arriving at Schiphol Airport need around 22 minutes to reach the Dutch capital.

How big is Amsterdam Airport?

Amsterdam Airport spreads into a 27.87km²  surface. It has one large terminal building, split into three Departures halls and 6 runways. Still, one of the runways handles the vast majority of the airport’s aircraft traffic.

How early to get to Amsterdam Airport​?

In general terms, you should be at the airport two hours before your onward flights if your destination lies in Europe and three hours if you are up for an intercontinental journey. This is a safe timeline as Schiphol Airport is a busy hub, serving up to 200.000 passengers per day!

How to travel from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam?

Besides the airport taxis, the handy car rentals, and the luxury private Amsterdam airport transfers, public transit options are also at your disposal for your 21-km ride from Amsterdam Airport to Amsterdam. Hence, if traveling on a budget, you can opt for a bus or train journey from Schiphol Airport to your destination in the city.