Negotiations between trade unions and Schiphol have produced an agreement to improve working conditions for security personnel, averting a strike planned for today.
Union negotiator Serda Karabulut of the FNV called the outcome a major victory, noting that employers eventually agreed to all demands following last-minute talks over rest days.
Better breaks and shift patterns
Security workers had previously held brief 15-minute work stoppages on 25 and 26 August to protest heavy workloads, causing longer queues at passenger checkpoints.
Staff sought improvements across eight areas, including longer breaks and faster access to toilets, which were often delayed by the long walking distances across the airport terminal.
Under the new deal, staff who work five or more consecutive days will receive two days off instead of one to allow for adequate recovery time.
Part-time employees who were frequently scheduled for short shifts across many days will also transition to standard eight-hour shifts over fewer working days.
Phased introduction of changes
Airport operational director Patricia Vitalis welcomed the agreement, stating it provides stability for travellers and improves daily working conditions for staff.
Some of the agreed measures will take effect immediately, while others must be implemented by the May holidays of 2027 at the latest.

