Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) has decided to bring the administration of the passenger with reduced mobility (PRM) assistance service in-house. This change is scheduled to commence by early 2028, but until the transition happens, the current provider, Axxicom Airport Caddy, will remain in place.
The Transition
The airport has thought thoroughly about the in-housing of the assistance service. Patricia Vitalis, chief operating officer at the Royal Schiphol Group, expressed satisfaction with the current assistance providers and thanked them, but also demonstrated excitement about the change.
Vitalis explained that Schiphol expects the number of passengers requiring assistance to increase, making it more interesting for the airport to conduct the service.
“That is why we have decided to take on this responsibility ourselves, taking over the organisation and making it part of our daily practice,” Vitalis said about the transition.
Additionally, the airport guaranteed that the current employees’ jobs will be secured throughout the transition, and that both Schiphol and Facilicon Group have been in contact with unions to ensure a proper transition.
What Does This Mean for Travellers?
The change is only set to happen in 2028, and until then, Axxicom Airport Caddy (a member of Facilicon Group) will continue to provide the service. As of today, one should request assistance through the airline, which remains the case until early 2028. The airport has stated that this decision is made in order to improve passengers’ experience with the service.
Hence, the current scenario for passengers who require assistance going through AMS is the same as it has been since 2003, when the group first assumed the position. Schiphol assured passengers that, when the transition occurs, the service will be conducted with the same effectiveness and commitment as it is now.
What do you think of this decision? Do you think other airports should adopt this measure? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
