2 October 2008

AMSTERDAM -- A government advisory commission says the capacity of Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport should be allowed to expand to a maximum of 510,000 flights a year. Further expansion, especially in flights to holiday destinations, should be considered by the airports in Lelystad and Eindhoven.

The commission heard from all interested parties, including residents living near Schiphol. The biggest issue was noise nuisance and, despite recommending air traffic growth, the commission said a different method should be used to measure noise from the planes.

Transport Minister Camiel Eurlings says the cabinet wants to settle the issue of Schiphol's expansion in 2008.

The initial response of MPs to the commission's advice was divided. The opposition Socialist Party and Green Left note that one local resident left the commission and is disputing its findings.

[Radio Netherlands / Expatica]