Extra colleagues and volunteers to help you
This summer, it is busy at Schiphol at certain times and we regret that travellers have to stand in line for longer as a result. That is not what we want and that is why many colleagues and volunteers are working hard to make your journey as smooth as possible. In the departure halls, the queues for security and even in the baggage basement, they are lending a hand. Meet the office staff, retired volunteers from the Welcome@Schiphol team and the security coaches.
‘It feels good to help’
Peter is 75 years old and volunteers with the Welcome@Schiphol team. ‘I’ve always enjoyed working here as a baggage handler. Schiphol is in my heart. And when you’re asked to come and help, you just do it.’ Meanwhile, his colleague Lydia (71) points a traveller to the right departure hall. She says: ‘I think it’s great that we, as senior citizens, can do our bit for Schiphol.’ To which Peter responds: ‘Indeed, even if it’s only a small contribution, I go home with a good feeling because I helped someone.’
‘Where does the line for security start?’
Joshi normally works as an HR advisor in an office, but now he is in the departure hall in his pink jacket answering questions from travellers. ‘I try to answer questions like “Where do I check in?”, “Where do I drop off my suitcase?” and “Where does the line for security start?”. It’s difficult to see that people sometimes have to wait for a really long time, but that makes it even more worth it to be standing here.
‘Getting out of bed at five o’clock’
Besides answering questions in the departure hall, office staff can also help unload suitcases in the baggage basement. That’s exactly what Anne Willem, who normally works in data & analytics, is doing. ‘I really enjoy doing this. It’s a unique opportunity to take a look around here and understand what happens to baggage here. Even though I have to get up at five o’clock to be here on time.’
‘Almost your turn’
‘It’s almost your turn, isn’t it?’ In the queue for security, security coach Hannah smiles kindly at a traveller. She has just indicated that he can put his passport in his bag. ‘As a security coach I prepare people for the security check. I tell them what they should do and especially what they should not do. It’s rewarding work, because the security check runs more smoothly if people are prepared.’
Read the previous blogs
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75 years of the Schiphol Fire Brigade
Published on:Where firefighting at Schiphol once involved little more than a sandpit and a few hand pumps, today a professional organisation is on hand 24/7 to keep us safe.
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Is a filled bottle allowed through security?
Published on:You’re flying from Schiphol and have arrived at airport security check with a filled bottle. But what about those liquids again? Can you take it with you?
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Holiday packing list
Published on:What do you take with you on holiday and on the plane? With this baggage checklist, you'll know for sure what's allowed in your suitcase and your hand baggage.
