Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is considering not going ahead with its planned increase in airline fees in 2026, although no final decision has been made.

The Netherlands hub, which raised charges by a massive 41 per cent this year, had planned a further 5 per cent rise in 2026. But, in a statement, Schiphol said it ¡°now intends not to implement this increase¡± and was currently in talks with airlines about a proposal to freeze rates next year.

The move comes just two weeks after European aviation groups criticised the Dutch government¡¯s plans to increase its air passenger tax on departing flights, with fees rising by up to €70 per ticket for long-haul services.

Robert Carsouw, chief financial officer of Royal Schiphol Group, said: ¡°We understand that the 2025 charge increase has a significant impact on airlines flying to and from Schiphol. This increase is necessary to invest in quality and to encourage airlines to use their quietest aircraft.

¡°At the same time, we see that Schiphol is performing well financially and that some airlines consider Schiphol to be too expensive. This requires us to find the right balance. That is why we are in discussions about the charges and are considering reducing the planned charge increase for 2026 to 0 per cent.¡±

A statement added that Schiphol was able to propose a freeze in next year¡¯s charges because it has ¡°focused on efficiency and cost control in airport operations, without compromising on quality and safety¡±.

A final decision on the level of Schiphol¡¯s 2026¡¯s airline charges will be made by the end of October following its consultations with carriers.

The Dutch government is also due to cut the number of annual flights allowed at Schiphol from 500,000 to 478,000 from the start of the 2025-26 winter season from late October, despite long-running opposition from airlines.