Writes Sander Opdam, Site Manager AMS.
As summer unfolds, ServiceTec continues to be at the forefront of critical infrastructure projects at Schiphol Airport.
Securing Our Future at Schiphol
Our presence at the airport is built on strong partnerships, and we’re actively working to secure our future. While negotiations for the renewal of our SITA contract, which concluded on June 30th, began in November 2024, a final signed agreement is still pending due to ongoing discussions between SITA and the CLUB.
However, we’ve successfully obtained a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which effectively should secure our five-year contract extension. This is excellent news, reaffirming our long-term commitment and operational stability at Schiphol.
European Entry Exit System
Our dedication to the EES kiosks remains a key focus, and we have significant new developments to share.
While the EES project has seen its share of evolving requirements, our team has consistently risen to the challenge. Most recently, following an audit, some of the electrical modifications, which some of you may remember from previous newsletters, were not accepted by the auditor. This led to the creation and implementation of a completely revised electrical plan. We’re pleased to report that this latest phase of work, which involved over 200 additional hours of specialized effort, is now almost fully completed, ensuring the kiosks meet all current regulations and operational standards.
The journey toward the full implementation of EES has been dynamic, but we now have a much clearer timeline. Recent communications suggest a progressive start of operations for EES on October 12, 2025. This rollout is planned to extend until April 2026, allowing for a phased integration across Member States.
Enhancing Passenger Flow with eGates Upgrade
In the meantime, we’re also collaborating closely with our customer Amadeus on an exciting new project: implementing a Mid-Life Upgrade for the Self-Service Passport Control eGates by Vision-Box. This significant undertaking involves a full rebuild of the existing eGate chassis and the integration of new IT hardware, including a biometric system with both facial recognition and fingerprint scanners. In total, there are 78 eGates (arranged in 13 clusters of 6) across Schiphol Airport that require this extensive rebuild. We’re making swift progress, and by the time you read this, the upgrade of the third cluster will have been completed.
Looking Ahead: Schiphol Security Asset RFP
Beyond our current projects, we are also closely monitoring future opportunities that align with our expertise in airport technology and infrastructure. Schiphol Airport has recently announced its Security Asset Request for Proposal (RFP), a significant tender that will shape the future of service delivery for IT at the airport.
This is a crucial development for Schiphol’s long-term operational strategy and we are actively assessing this opportunity, leveraging our deep understanding of airport operations and our proven track record in deploying and maintaining complex systems, to explore how ServiceTec can contribute to Schiphol’s enhanced security landscape in the coming years.
Photo (see top of article)
On a lighter note, it was quite something to have the NATO summit take place right on our doorstep in The Hague last month!
Schiphol certainly felt the buzz with all the international delegates and dignitaries passing through. It’s always fascinating to see our region play host to such a significant global event.
In Conclusion
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every member of my team for their continued hard work, adaptability, and unwavering commitment. Your efforts are vital in delivering essential services and upholding ServiceTec’s reputation for excellence.
We look forward to a productive summer and the successful launch of EES this autumn!
