Aviapartner, Menzies Aviation and Swissport have challenged the outcome of Amsterdam Airport Schiphol’s ground handling tender, which would reduce the number of handlers operating at the airport from six to three.

The District Court of The Hague heard the companies’ objections Sept. 2. All three failed to secure provisional contracts when Schiphol selected dnata, KLM and Viggo in June. The court is expected to issue a ruling Sept. 23.

Schiphol launched the tender in December 2025 as part of a plan to move from an open ground handling market to a regulated model. Under the plan, three companies will receive concessions to provide baggage handling and apron services, with airlines remaining free to choose among the selected providers. The new arrangement is currently scheduled to take effect March 28, 2027.

The challenges raised several issues surrounding the selection process.

Aviapartner questioned the evaluation of its bid and the scores it received. The challengers also raised concerns about KLM’s position as both an airline and ground handler and whether airlines were adequately consulted during the tender process.

Questions were also raised about dnata’s selection, including previous allegations involving the company. Schiphol said it investigated the claims and found no basis to exclude dnata from the tender.

The companies also questioned whether Viggo will have sufficient staffing and resources to support its future operation. Schiphol said operational feasibility was part of the evaluation and that the selected companies demonstrated they could meet the required standards.

Schiphol maintains the tender was conducted according to established criteria and applicable procurement rules.

The airport has said reducing the number of handlers will allow it to place greater requirements on safety, working conditions and service quality while encouraging greater cooperation and shared use of ground support equipment.

The final contract awards are on hold pending the court ruling. Schiphol currently expects the transition schedule to remain unchanged.