Schiphol Airport launches its own network for IoT applications
Posted: 21 October 2019 | International Airport Review | No comments yet
The first IoT application at Schiphol involves the option for passengers to share real-time feedback regarding their experiences in the toilet facilities.
Schiphol has completed a roll-out of its own network for Internet of Things (IoT) applications at the airport.
The network covers all public areas such as the arrival and departure halls, lounges, piers and Schiphol Plaza, and in non-public areas such as the baggage basements and aprons. Thanks to its greater range and reduced power consumption in comparison to Wi-Fi, the network is ideally suited to connecting with smart sensors and sending data over long distances.
The sensors connect facilities and infrastructure at Schiphol to the internet, while the information from these sensors provides the airport with real-time insights.
Free webinar – The future of asset management in global aviation
15 January, 2026, 02:00PM GMT
Join this virtual panel to hear from some of the AtkinsRéalis and aviation sector experts as we discuss how asset management is changing and the impact it will have on the future operations of airports throughout the world.
“The in-house network for IoT underscores our ambition to remain a front runner when it comes to digitalisation at airports and making the applications at Schiphol smart, so that we can improve our processes for passengers and partners. IoT applications are already in use and we will be able to implement new cases quickly in future. Through the use of digital sensors, we intend to improve our services and make the airport more attractive,” said Sjoerd Blüm, Chief Information Officer at Schiphol.
The first IoT application at Schiphol involves the option for passengers to share real-time feedback regarding their experiences in the toilet facilities. These real-time evaluations are then applied to conduct a detailed analysis of how the toilets are being used and assessed. Over 550,000 responses were received during September 2019.
The in-house network makes the implementation of new applications quick and straightforward. Schiphol plans to test applications involving sensors at aircraft stands, so that real-time information about the equipment can be provided on-site at the aircraft stand. This could make it possible to check whether the necessary equipment is present before the aircraft and the handling personnel arrive at the gate. At the same time, this information is expected to help resolve disruptions quickly and prevent delays.
WATCH NOW ON DEMAND: Enabling checkpoint flexibility with responsible open architecture
Join us for an essential virtual panel supported by Smiths Detection. We will explore how airports can overcome the challenge of mixed vendor systems by adopting a flexible, open approach to checkpoint technology.
This session offers a focused look into achieving efficiency, agility, and future-readiness.
Key learning points
- Understand what to ask during procurement to ensure long-term flexibility and avoid vendor lock-in.
- Learn how centralised image review and flexible algorithm use can help you get more from the technology you already own.
- Strategies to make mixed vendor screening systems work together to improve checkpoint performance and reduce costs.
- See examples of collaborative deployments and the operational agility they enabled.
Register now for expert insights from Los Angeles World Airports, Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security, and Smiths Detection!
Related topics
Big data, Information technology (IT), Passenger experience and seamless travel, Terminal operations, Wi-Fi
Chief Executive Officer
CEO
Chief Operating Officer
Head of Operations, Safety and Emergency
Chief Strategy Development Officer
Head of Operations
Airport General Manager
CEO
Chief Executive Officer