Amsterdam Airport Schiphol has begun a major overhaul of its ground handling operations with the launch of a tender on 4 December to select three ground handling companies. The chosen firms will manage baggage processing and aircraft-side tasks such as loading, unloading, and operating ground support equipment. Schiphol currently relies on six companies for these services.
The airport says the tender marks a shift from a highly competitive open market toward a higher, more controlled standard of service and employment conditions. It follows the introduction of a sector-wide collective labour agreement in 2023 and a decision by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management—initiated by Schiphol—to limit the number of handlers operating at the airport.
Raising Standards and Reducing Congestion
By reducing the number of providers, Schiphol aims to streamline apron operations and improve efficiency. Handlers will be required to share ground equipment, freeing up space and promoting more sustainable operations. New criteria also focus on improving employees’ working conditions and upgrading service quality, with passengers expected to benefit from shorter baggage wait times.
Focus on Workforce Stability
Schiphol emphasises the importance of retaining the expertise of current staff. A covenant signed by Aviapartner, dnata, Menzies, Swissport, Viggo, the FNV union, and Schiphol establishes additional CLA measures for the transition, ensuring employees keep their jobs and conditions during the changeover.
KLM, which performs its own handling, will adhere to its internal agreements.
Transparent Process and Long-Term Stability
The tender—conducted under EU procurement rules—will run until Q3 2026. A transition phase will follow, with new ground handling cooperation starting in early 2027. Contracts will cover a seven-year period, providing long-term stability for the airport and its workforce.