Hundreds miss flights as Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport hit by long security queues

Hundreds of passengers missed flights at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport on Monday after long queues formed at security checkpoints following the rollout of a new security system, according to NL Times.

The airport said it could not rule out similar delays on Tuesday as passengers faced heavy congestion across multiple departure halls. At several points, queues reportedly stretched beyond check-in counters.

Schiphol said the disruption was linked to the launch of a new security setup under which the airport reduced the number of security contractors from five to three. The airport has also taken stakes in the newly formed companies as part of efforts to improve operational control.

Staffing shortages and IT problems disrupt operations

According to Schiphol, the first day of the transition was affected by unexpected shortages of security staff as well as IT problems during the morning hours, causing delays throughout the day.

The airport said nearly half of its 5,000 security guards shifted to new employers under the revised structure.

Despite the disruption, Schiphol said it had scheduled enough personnel for Tuesday and placed additional staff on standby if required.

The airport has advised passengers travelling within Europe to arrive at least two hours before departure, while intercontinental travellers have been asked to arrive three hours early.

Schiphol also warned passengers to monitor updates from airlines and the airport before travelling, as waiting times at security could remain longer than normal.