rssSep 19, 2026, 05:30

110 years of Schiphol: what you still recognize

Schiphol Airport celebrates its 110th anniversary by reflecting on its growth from a muddy field into a massive international transport hub. Historical landmarks, including an old control tower and entrance signs in Schiphol-Oost, remain as visible reminders of the airport's pioneering past.

Schiphol Airport is celebrating its 110th anniversary, marking a massive transformation from its origins as a small airfield on a muddy field to a vast international aviation hub. The airport, now spanning an area equivalent to 4,500 football pitches, retains several historical artifacts that serve as reminders of its early days. Long-time employees and archivists emphasize that despite the immense modernization, remnants of the past still define the character of the site.

Key historical features remain visible in the Schiphol-Oost area, which once served as the main entrance to the airport. Archivist Robert Lagendijk points out that the original entry sign and the old air traffic control tower, which operated until 1969, are still standing among modern hangars and office buildings. These structures provide a glimpse into an era when aviation was a novelty and the airport environment was significantly smaller and more intimate. Today, the airport reflects on this evolution through documentaries and personal stories from staff who have witnessed its growth over decades.

Business Culture Netherlands

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Based on reporting by rss. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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