The new high-speed train link from Amsterdam Schiphol is due to open in September. This will run directly from the terminal to Antwerp, Breda, Brussels and Rotterdam.
Trains running on the route travel at 250km/h 16 times a day. This makes travel around the Netherlands and Benelux region much faster.
Sorry for the late warning. Dutch Spotters are hosting another Rotterdam Aviation Fair inside the terminal building on Saturday 18 April.
Parking and entrance is free. Inside you’ll find many booths and tables selling all kinds of books, DVDs, models, slides etc.
You can also take part in ramp tours of Rotterdam Airport (I did one of these a couple of years ago and it proved very fruitful!). There’s also the chance to take a sightseeing flight to Amsterdam.
The event is open from 10am to 4pm. See this link for more information.
Upstairs, Rotterdam has a great viewing gallery overlooking the apron.
The following message has been sent from Dutch Police to spotters at Amsterdam Schiphol airport:
Since 1-7-2008 there is 24/7 a new unit operational responsible for the security in the perimeters of Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.
This unit is equipped with Mercedes Jeeps and Volkswagen Touaregs in the well known Dutch Police colours.
Today on the Sramble forum the chief of this Unit, Mr. Warmerdam introduced himself and his unit to the Amsterdam spotters community an to explain what they are doing and why so.
This new unit is working closely together with local Military Police and the Airport Authorities, and the unit plays an important role in the security of the airport.
All members of this police –unit are appointed by Ministry of Justice and Inland Affairs.
The new unit stressed not to be there to make our spotters life miserable but they are there to guard and protect. They acknowledge the fact that spotters can be their extra pair of eyes around the perimeter. This is one of the reasons why these police officers are actively seeking contact with spotters in action and talk to each other.
However is must be clear that they will act immediately in certain circumstances:
Furthermore the police notices that lots of spotters are more or less known to each other. So we could have the early and very first signs if “strange birds” are among us. In case of high priority he recommends 112 for alarming whilst in the meantime a special telephone number will be created for this purpose by the Airport Authorities.
I think this is a very positive move. You now know the rules, and know to co-operate with the police as they do not wish to move you on unless necessary.
The new book by the author of this blog covers 35 of Europe's best airports for spotting.
Each guide includes a map, spotting locations, technical information, contact details, list of airlines, list of aircraft stored/preserved/wrecked at each airport, and details of the best hotels and rooms to stay in.