Schiphol Equips All 385 Baggage Workstations with Lifting Aids

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol has introduced lifting aids at all 385 baggage hall workstations, becoming one of the first airports globally to offer this scale of ergonomic support. The initiative is designed to reduce physical strain, improve safety, and create a healthier workplace for baggage employees, while the airport continues to push forward with its long-term plan for fully mechanised baggage handling.

The rollout, completed while baggage operations continued as normal, was a joint effort between Schiphol and six ground handlers: Aviapartner, dnata, KLM, Menzies, Swissport, and Viggo.

“This is a significant improvement for our employees. We tested, purchased, and installed the lifting aids in rapid succession while keeping operations running. Our priority is a safe and pleasant workplace,” said Esmé Valk, Chief People & Transformation at Royal Schiphol Group.

Customised Technology for Safer Work

The lifting aids were developed specifically for Schiphol, as suitable solutions did not yet exist on the market. Over two years, employees tested various models, leading to refinements in usability, safety, and speed. Modifications to the baggage halls – including relocated pavements and adapted guard rails – ensured the new technology integrated seamlessly without disrupting daily operations.

These aids also meet the Netherlands Labour Authority’s standards and are part of Schiphol’s campaign to make mechanical assistance the standard for baggage staff.

Towards Fully Automated Baggage Halls

While lifting aids represent a major step, Schiphol is also testing robots and automated systems for the future of baggage handling.

• A robot has been loading departing baggage into carts and aircraft containers for over six months.

• Since June, an automated system has begun unloading arriving baggage, with employees only responsible for opening and inspecting containers.

• Future plans include self-driving transport, next-generation baggage containers, and new robots developed in collaboration with suppliers.

Schiphol is also partnering with Brussels, Incheon, London Heathrow, and Oslo airports to advance these global innovations. The goal: make baggage work lighter, safer, and more efficient while gradually moving toward full mechanisation.