Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Introduction
Called Schiphol Airport, you will find information related to the major international airport in Amsterdam, Netherlands, and it is a hotspot for the SkyTeam airline association. Situated 9 kilometers southwest of Amsterdam in the municipality of Haarlemmermeer, Schiphol is the third busiest airport in Europe and ranks as one of Europe's top five airports with passenger volume.
Airlines and Destinations
Schiphol serves as the main hub for KLM and its regional affiliate KLM Cityhopper, and Martinair. Corendon Dutch Airlines, easyJet, Transavia, and TUI fly Netherlands serve as operating bases for the airport. Connected to the entire world with nonstop passenger flights on 270 destinations in 84 countries, Schiphol has two South African connections: Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Passenger & Flight Count
The Dutch national airport processed nearly 72 million passengers in 2019, which ranks it as the third busiest passenger volume-wise for a European hub. In addition, the number of aircraft movements at the airport totaled 509,725 in January-November this year: cross-country flights amounted to 496,827, and local air transportation services - 6,098. It handles 1.74 million tons of cargo every year and ranks as the fourth busiest airport in Europe for this category.
How to Get Here
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is located 20 km from the center of Amsterdam. The fastest and most convenient way is taking a train, which operates about every 5-10 minutes for around 18 minutes to drop you off in the city center. Another option would be the Amsterdam Airport Express bus, which stops at many places in the city center and takes about 30 minutes.
Parking
Schiphol Airport has several parking facilities, with the long-stay, unsheltered P3 Long Term lot being one of the cheapest available options at a minimum duration requirement of 8 hours. Parking charges for the first 24 hours: From €51.
Transportation Price
Single Fares: €5.50 — The quickest and most affordable way from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Centraal Station is via the train, with a direct journey taking 15-20 minutes (€5.50). A single ticket costs €6.50 on the Amsterdam Airport Express bus. Taxis are also present; between a downtown city and an airport, there is a minimum charge of €35.
Terminal Layout
Schiphol Airport has one main terminal, which is split into three departure halls: Halls 1, 2, and 3. It is divided into halls with a central area that goes by the name of 'Plaza', where you can find shops, restaurants, and a node.
Navigate the Airport
Schiphol Airport has very clear and color-coded signs throughout the terminal, which make it easy to navigate. The airport also offers passengers wayfinding and services information through its mobile app or website.
Getting Between Terminals
Schiphol Airport: easy access from the main terminal to bridge piers D, E, F, and G. A free shuttle bus runs every 5-10 minutes and takes approximately 10 minutes to get between the various parts of the airport for those who need to transfer from one terminal to another.
Services and Amenities
From Aspire Lounges to the Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel and Conference Center, you will find everything here at Schiphol Airport, as if it is a shopping arcade.
Restaurants and Shops
There are a wide variety of restaurants and shops at Schiphol airport on both the Departure Side (departing flights) as well as Arrivals. The airport offers dining with Starbucks, Burger King, and the Ciao Café, well represented in addition to a selection of retail stores and duty-free outlets.
Security and Customs
Flying nonstop internationally typically only requires passengers to clear customs and immigration at their destination airport upon arrival. This applies to travelers with a layover on a single ticket, and their final destination is checked all the way through.
Accessibility
In accordance with the Airports & Persons With Disabilities Handbook, Schiphol Airport is striving to make flying more accessible for passengers with disabilities. This airport offers a range of services and amenities to help travelers have a comfortable and stress-free journey.
Travel Tips
For a trip to South Africa from Amsterdam, it is advised you visit during the shoulder season (Autumn or Spring) to avoid paying more money. When traveling by public transportation, it is a budget-friendly way to get around in this country. Also, it is essential to take necessary safety measures like carrying your belongings with you, walking in a group, and using a card instead of carrying cash.