Early flights (05:00–09:00): the pros and cons
Advantages:
- You arrive at your destination early — more of the day left
- Schiphol is relatively quiet at security
- Less chance of delays (the day has only just begun, no knock-on effect)
- Cheaper parking (shorter)
Disadvantages:
- You have to get up extremely early (journey at 03:30–04:30)
- Only a few trains are running — you often need a taxi or your own car
- Not all restaurants and shops at Schiphol are open
- Lack of sleep can make for a chaotic start to your holiday
Tip: an early flight combines best with a taxi — from the Haarlem region the train is awkward early in the morning, with few trains and often a change.
Good to know
Flights departing before 08:00 have the fewest delays on average. Punctuality declines as the day goes on. Also read: what time should you leave home?
Morning flights (09:00–12:00): the comfortable middle
Flights between 09:00 and 12:00 are ideal for many holidaymakers:
- You leave at a normal time — no extreme alarms
- Public transport and taxis are widely available
- You arrive at your destination in the afternoon or early evening
- Security is busier than for early flights, but manageable
For a 10:00 flight from Haarlem, the driver picks you up between 06:30 and 07:00 — a pleasant start without stress.
Afternoon flights (12:00–17:00): good for overnight destinations
Afternoon flights are popular with:
- Long-haul destinations (you sleep on the plane and arrive in the morning)
- Travellers who want to spend another morning at home
- Families with children who like a lie-in
Disadvantage: you lose a full day to travelling and arrive too late to see anything of your destination on day 1. Schiphol is also busier in the afternoon — allow for extra waiting time at security.
Good to know
Flights to the US usually depart from Schiphol between 10:00 and 15:00. You then fly for 8–10 hours and land in New York or Chicago in the early afternoon — ideal for a full first day.
Evening flights (17:00–23:00): for the determined
Late flights have specific advantages:
- Intercontinental flights: you sleep and arrive in the morning
- You can simply work through the day or be at home
- Schiphol is relatively quiet in the evening after 20:00
But: you arrive at your destination tired and the first night is lost to travelling. For shorter holidays (5–7 days) this is less convenient.
Good to know
KLM operates most of its long-haul flights in the afternoon and evening. The most popular departures to Bangkok, Curaçao and New York are between 14:00 and 20:00.
What is the best departure time for most holidaymakers?
Based on comfort, crowds and arrival time, we recommend the following to holidaymakers:
- European destinations (2–4 hours' flying): choose a flight between 08:00 and 11:00. You arrive at your destination early and do not have to get up extremely early.
- Mediterranean (3–4 hours): 07:00–10:00 is ideal. On arrival you still have a full afternoon.
- Long-haul (8+ hours): 14:00–18:00. You sleep on the plane and start the next day refreshed.
As a holidaymaker, give preference to morning flights — more of the day, fewer crowds, better punctuality.
Transport to Schiphol by time of day
The time of your flight also determines your transport options:
- Early flight: the train is often awkward or will not get you there in time — a taxi picks you up at any time
- Flight after 09:00: all transport options are available
Early in the morning only a few trains run from Haarlem and the surrounding area, and you often have to change. If in doubt, check the NS journey planner.
AMS Taxi Schiphol operates 24/7 — including at 03:30, 04:00 or 05:00 for early flights. Book online the evening before or call +31 85 400 5400. You will immediately receive a confirmation email with your pick-up time.
