The International Air Transport Association (Iata) has warned the Dutch government not to rush through proposed cuts to flight numbers at Amsterdam Schiphol airport while there is a caretaker administration in place.
The Netherlands’ coalition government collapsed in July in a row over asylum policies and prime minister Mark Rutte is heading a caretaker administration until fresh elections can be held in November.
Iata issued its warning along with the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) and European Regions Airline Association (ERA).
Their statement said: “This matter remains before the courts and the proposed process is strongly opposed by the airline industry; therefore, in no way can this be considered ‘uncontroversial’.
“In a few months’ time, this government will not be accountable for the severe consequences that may follow from the Schiphol decision, particularly with respect to relations with the Netherlands’ trading partners, and lost jobs and prosperity at home.
“Such a consequential and controversial move requires proper democratic scrutiny and political accountability.”
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The Dutch government is the majority shareholder in Schiphol and in June 2022 announced its intention to limit aircraft movements at the hub.
It imposed an interim reduction from the current 500,000 limit on flights to 460,000 from November 2023.
The aims is to further reduce the number of flights at Schiphol to 440,000 from late 2024, chiefly to reduce noise, but also to improve air quality.
In March, Iata and airlines mounted a legal challenge to the limits and in April, a Dutch court halted the government plan by issuing an interim injunction.
The aviation associations warned: “Flight cuts of this magnitude at Schiphol will mean reductions in slot holdings that will negatively impact passenger and freight services.
“Rushing this process through could result in retaliatory international action and further legal challenges.
“In such circumstances, any attempt by Minister Harbers [transport minister Mark Harbers] and a failed government in caretaker mode to rush through the flight cuts at Schiphol would be irresponsible on several levels.”
Willie Walsh, Iata director general, said: “It is essential that any decision be postponed until a fully functioning and accountable government with a fresh mandate is in place.
“This unprecedented and complex proposal can then be considered carefully, with the legal questions settled and the full facts and implications understood and in the public domain, and with sufficient time for the air transport industry to adapt if necessary, when a final decision is known.”