Schiphol unveils newly expanded Lounge 1, improving experience for European flights

Schiphol Airport has opened a newly expanded section of Lounge 1, adding 5,000 square metres of space to enhance the experience for passengers flying within Europe. This newly developed area represents a key milestone in Schiphol’s extensive redevelopment, aimed at creating a more spacious, modern, and comfortable environment for travellers.

This addition will be of particular interest to Global Travel Management customers who travel frequently through Schiphol, as the added space and planned amenities promise a smoother, more comfortable journey through one of Europe’s busiest airports. Over the next few months, further enhancements will be added to Lounge 1, including new dining establishments and retail options, all designed to provide a higher-quality experience for travellers and to better meet future demand.

With a total of over 20,000 square metres now under redevelopment in Lounge 1, Schiphol is focusing on making the airport not only more spacious but also more sustainable. By transforming an existing car park and parts of four buildings, Schiphol has created a large, bright plaza filled with natural light, seating areas, and even three tall trees, designed to bring a calm and relaxing atmosphere to the bustling airport. Sustainable materials have also been prioritised in the construction, including bamboo wall panels and seating crafted from grass cut at the airport itself.

Sybren Hahn, Schiphol’s Executive Director of Infrastructure, remarked,

The finished plaza is a new part of Schiphol to be proud of, and an important step in the redevelopment of the airport. It is the transformation of the oldest part of our airport into a modern, bright space, while also replacing fundamental parts. Literally and figuratively a strong piece of work. This new area sets a new standard for how we want to welcome passengers, with more space, comfort and modern facilities.

The opening of this expanded lounge area is part of Schiphol’s ambitious investment plan to make the airport “future-proof” over the next five years, with an investment of 6 billion euros. In addition to Lounge 1, the programme includes various large and small infrastructure projects, including the renewal of Pier C and Lounge 2. These investments aim to improve the overall quality, infrastructure, and working conditions at Schiphol for both passengers and airlines, as the airport aims to meet rising demand with an emphasis on quality and experience.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented on the value of the new expansion:

This enhancement at Schiphol demonstrates their commitment to improving the travel experience for UK-based business travellers, many of whom rely on Schiphol as a key hub. The added space and forthcoming amenities will undoubtedly ease transit times, provide greater comfort, and offer a better overall experience for our clients who regularly travel across Europe.

For further information on how these developments at Schiphol may benefit your business travel, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.