Airport Hacks & Reviews Guide to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) - Non Official

Amsterdam Airport Terminal - Schiphol Terminal

Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) – Terminals Guide

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport operates with a unique single-terminal concept, making it one of the most efficient airports in Europe. All departure halls, piers and services are located under one roof, simplifying connections and passenger flow.

The airport handles Schengen and non-Schengen flights through multiple interconnected concourses (B, C, D, E, F, G, H and M), allowing passengers to move freely after security.

Schiphol is easy to navigate conceptually, but distances can be long—always allow extra time to reach your gate.

Terminal Map

Hamad International Airport Terminal Map


History & Origins

Schiphol Airport opened in 1916 as a military base and evolved into a major international hub. Its modern design focuses on efficiency and connectivity, with a single-terminal structure developed to simplify transfers and improve passenger experience.

Terminal overview
Main terminal interior at Schiphol Airport.

Terminal Structure & Departure Halls

The airport is divided into three main departure halls, all interconnected:

  • Departure Hall 1: Piers B and C (mainly Schengen)
  • Departure Hall 2: Piers D and E (mixed flights)
  • Departure Hall 3: Piers F, G and H/M (long-haul and low-cost)

Pier D has two levels: upper (Schengen) and lower (non-Schengen), which is important for transfers.

Piers & Gate Areas

  • B & C: Short-haul Schengen flights
  • D: Mixed operations (two levels)
  • E: Intercontinental flights
  • F & G: Long-haul international
  • H & M: Low-cost airlines
Departures
Departures area at Schiphol Airport.

Terminal Levels

  • Level 0: Arrivals, baggage claim, transport
  • Level 1: Check-in and departures
  • Level 2: Security, lounges, restaurants
  • Level 3: Panorama terrace

The train station is located directly below the terminal, providing fast access to Amsterdam and beyond.

Terminal level
Inside the terminal levels.

Walking Times & Distances

Gate Area Walking Time Flight Type
B / C 2–8 min Schengen
D 5–10 min Mixed
E 5–12 min Long-haul
F / G 8–15 min Intercontinental
H / M 5–10 min Low-cost


Popular Routes

Destination Duration Airlines
London 1h 15m KLM, BA, easyJet
Paris 1h 20m KLM, Air France
Barcelona 2h 20m KLM, Vueling
New York 8h KLM, Delta
Dubai 6h 45m Emirates
Singapore 12h 30m KLM, Singapore Airlines


Typical Airport Times

Process Time
Check-in 5–20 min
Security 10–35 min
Passport Control 10–25 min
Boarding 20–30 min

Terminal final
Overall terminal experience at Schiphol Airport.


Location Map


Walking Tour