KLM is downsizing the full-freight cargo fleet in Schiphol Airport, for that reason it is important for the company and the airport to explore the consequences of moving the cargo transported by the full freighters into the bellies of the passenger flights. The consequences of this action in terms of capacity and requirements are still unknown. The current study illustrates how to analyse the uncertainty present in the system for identifying the limitations and potential consequences of the reduction of full freighter fleet. The options we identify for coping with the current demand is by adjusting their load factors or increase the number of flights. The current model includes the airside operation of the airport, the truck movements and the traffic that arrives at Schiphol which allows addressing the impact of uncertainties of the operation as well as the limitations and potential problems of the phasing-out action.
Airport operations are undergoing significant change, having to meet pandemic requirements in addition to intrinsic security requirements. Although air traffic has declined massively, airports are still the critical hubs of the air transport network. The new restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic pose new challenges for airport operators in redesigning airport terminals and managing passenger flows. To evaluate the impact of COVID-19 restrictions, we implement a reference airport environment. In this Airport in the Lab environment we will demonstrate the operational consequences derived from the new operational requirements. In addition, countermeasures to mitigate any negative impacts of these changes are tested. The results highlight emerging issues that the airport will most likely face and possible solutions. Finally, we could apply the findings and lessons learned from our testing at our reference airport to a real airport.
