Unfortunately, Schiphol had failed to hire enough security officers and huge queues for security checkpoints started to build up outside the terminal buildings. Efforts to recruit more staff were hampered by historically low pay and unattractive working conditions.

In early 2026, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) has faced significant operational challenges primarily due to extreme winter weather and infrastructure bottlenecks. A massive "de-icing crisis" in January 2026 led to the cancellation of over 3,200 flights as supplies of de-icing fluid ran critically low during a week of sustained snow and ice. This created a "domino effect" across the European aviation network, as KLM—the airport's primary carrier—struggled to reposition crews and aircraft. Beyond weather, Schiphol is also dealing with long-term capacity caps imposed by the Dutch government to reduce noise pollution and carbon emissions, which has limited the airport's ability to recover quickly from disruptions. These factors, combined with ongoing labor shortages in ground handling, have made Schiphol one of the most "volatile" major hubs in Europe for travelers during the 2025/2026 winter season.