Clarity on Progress of Pier A: Ready in 2027

Schiphol Airport’s New Pier A Expected to Open in April 2027

Schiphol Airport has announced that the new Pier A will be operational starting April 2027. BAM will complete the construction of this extensive project, which aims to provide additional quality and comfort for passengers and airlines.

Project Timeline and Completion

Precise Scheduling and Collaboration

Schiphol and BAM have established a meticulous schedule to ensure the timely completion of Pier A. The construction is set to be completed by December 2026, followed by operational testing and training for hundreds of staff and airport partners. The pier is slated to open to passengers and airlines in April 2027.

Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles

The project faced several setbacks under the previous contractor, including delays, quality issues, and legal conflicts. Sybren Hahn, Executive Director Schiphol Infrastructure, acknowledged these challenges and emphasized the collaborative efforts with BAM to meet the new completion date.

Construction Details

Continued Efforts and Repairs

BAM, along with its subcontractors, is actively working to finish Pier A by early 2027. The project includes extensive repair work, such as replacing the damaged fire-resistant coating on approximately 18 kilometers of steel beams.

Cost Increases

The total cost of the Pier A project has risen to 1.393 million euros due to repair works, delays, and the extended project duration. Schiphol's shareholders have agreed to increase the 2021 budget by almost 300 million euros to cover these additional expenses.

Financial and Operational Insights

Budget Management

CFO Robert Carsouw emphasized the importance of cost management and transparency. Discussions with airlines about new airport charges and investments, including those for Pier A, are ongoing. The impact of individual projects on charges is minimal, and the costs of Pier A will be incorporated into the charges after its commissioning in 2027.

Features of Pier A

Enhanced Passenger and Airline Experience

Pier A, spanning 55,000 square meters, is designed to enhance passenger and airline experiences with its spacious layout and sustainable features. It will include eight gates, with three specifically for the largest aircraft, to meet current and future peak demands.

Sustainability Goals

The new pier will adhere to Schiphol’s sustainability objectives and the LEED Gold standard, making it the airport’s most sustainable pier. It will feature security filters, border controls, shops, and food and beverage facilities, with separate floors to manage travelers with different border and security statuses.

Vital Infrastructure

Pier A is crucial for Schiphol’s future, providing the necessary space to replace, renew, and make existing airport infrastructure more sustainable in the long run.