Trade unions representing security personnel at Schiphol Airport are preparing for potential strike action after negotiations with airport management broke down.
Labor unions FNV and CNV announced that they have ended talks, citing vague proposals and a lack of urgency from the airport to address high workloads and health issues among staff.
The unions claim that working conditions for security guards have visibly worsened in recent months.
Changes to airport security
Earlier this year, Schiphol restructured its security operations by reducing the number of contracted security firms from five to three.
While the airport introduced this change to gain greater control over daily operations, union representatives say the consolidation has increased pressure on the remaining workforce.
In response, trade unions recently presented a list of eight specific demands to both Schiphol management and the three security contractors.
Among these demands are the immediate implementation of a official heat protocol and a mandatory minimum number of female officers assigned to each security lane.
Rising frustration among guards
Union leaders state that security staff feel unable to carry out their work safely under current operational pressures.
They argue that Schiphol acknowledges the ongoing issues but refuses to make firm commitments that would provide immediate relief for workers.
Previous surveys among staff indicated a growing willingness to stop work if working conditions were not addressed before the busy travel period.
Potential impact on travel
Both FNV and CNV are now discussing joint next steps, which could include collective industrial action at the terminal checkpoints.
Previous security strikes and staffing shortages at the airport have led to long queues stretching outside the departures halls, resulting in missed flights for passengers.
If a strike goes ahead, travelers passing through Schiphol can expect significant delays and disruption to scheduled flights.
