air-cargo

Schiphol Cargo Poised to Gain as Low-Cost Carriers Exit

Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport is positioned to boost cargo volumes following the withdrawal of approximately 2,200 slots by low-cost carriers ahead of the winter 2026 season. EasyJet, Vueling, Lufthansa, Swiss and ITA have returned capacity due to significant increases in airport fees. The cargo community expects the shift to strengthen both belly and freighter operations. Long-haul carriers including LATAM, Thai Airways and Vietnam Airlines have claimed additional winter slots, supporting cargo growth since roughly half of Schiphol's cargo moves via passenger aircraft. Dedicated freighter operators already secured over 700 additional slots during the current summer season. Total cargo flight slots reached 9,703 for summer, representing a 3,402-slot increase from initial allocations. A procedural change taking effect this winter will allow Airport Coordination Netherlands to allocate released slots before seasons begin, enabling freighter operators to plan more effectively and book ad hoc capacity in early October.