As one of Europe’s busiest hubs, Schiphol connects the world—but this connectivity comes with a responsibility: managing noise in a way that protects communities while supporting aviation growth.

That’s where the Balanced Approach comes in. Established by ICAO, this internationally recognized framework provides a structured way to minimize noise impact through four key pillars:

  1. Reduction at Source – promoting quieter aircraft through technological innovation and fleet renewal.
  2. Land-Use Planning and Management – ensuring development around airports considers noise exposure and community well-being.
  3. Noise Abatement Operational Procedures – optimizing flight paths and operational practices to reduce noise.
  4. Operating Restrictions – applied only as a last resort when other measures are insufficient.

During this symposium, we will explore how these principles are applied at Schiphol. For this event, we will have three speakers (in order of appearance) from:

  1. To70 aviation consultants (Rik Graas) – Noise assessment/calculation using the balanced approach
  2. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Michael Arntzen) – Impact of application of balanced approach on operations and capacity
  3. Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management I&W (Maarten van der Niet) – How policies/regulations have an impact on balanced approach.

With these three speakers, we try to share the challenges faced in balancing operational capacity with environmental and social responsibility, and the collaborative solutions that can help us move forward. This is not just about compliance—it’s about innovation, engagement, and creating a sustainable future for aviation and the communities we serve.