ROTTERDAM, 29 July 2025 – A new shuttle bus has begun operating between metro station Meijersplein and Rotterdam The Hague Airport. The vehicle is the first self-driving bus on public roads in the Netherlands.

Self-driving bus launched between Meijersplein and Rotterdam The Hague Airport

A self-driving shuttle service has been introduced in Rotterdam, operating as bus line 533. The autonomous electric vehicles now provide transport between metro station Meijersplein and Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTHA). It marks the first deployment of self-driving buses on public roads in the Netherlands.

The service was officially launched on 11 July 2025 during an event attended by the Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management, Robert Tieman. From 1 August, travellers will be able to make use of the new connection. The autonomous shuttle, known officially as the Shuttle Rotterdam The Hague Airport, is being operated as a supplement to the existing public transport options in the area.

Partnership behind the technology

The project is the result of a partnership between DAM Shuttles, RET, HTM, the Municipality of Rotterdam, and the Metropolitan Region Rotterdam The Hague (Metropoolregio Rotterdam Den Haag – MRDH). The shuttle forms part of a broader strategy to test and gradually implement self-driving public transport in the region.

Wilma van Dijk, general director of Rotterdam The Hague Airport, described the shuttle as an important step in developing sustainable mobility solutions. She emphasised that the airport is being used as a testing ground for new technologies, and that the collaboration with regional partners has enabled the launch of the zero-emission vehicle.

Technical testing and safety

Before receiving clearance to operate on public roads, the shuttle underwent extensive testing. Approval was granted by the Netherlands Vehicle Authority (Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer – RDW) following trials with no passengers on board.

The route between the airport and the metro station was chosen for its relatively simple traffic layout, which makes it suitable for autonomous navigation. The vehicles are equipped with multiple sensors, including radar and camera systems, which constantly monitor the surrounding environment.

To ensure safety, a specially trained driver will be present in the vehicle during the first operational phase. These operators have received additional certification to take over control if necessary.

Details of bus line 533

The self-driving buses on line 533 are fully wheelchair accessible and can accommodate up to 20 passengers, including space for luggage. From 1 September, the service will be officially added to the public transport timetable and integrated into travel planning tools such as 9292.

Bus line 533 will operate alongside the existing bus line 33, which will continue to run on its current route without changes.

Getting there

The shuttle service operates between Rotterdam The Hague Airport and metro station Meijersplein. The area is located in the north of Rotterdam and can be easily reached via metro line E. Meijersplein station includes lift access and bicycle parking facilities. The airport terminal is located within walking distance of the shuttle stop.

ROTTERDAM, 28 March 2025 – Rotterdam The Hague Airport urges travellers to dress simply and follow baggage rules to speed up the security process. The airport has also introduced updated screening equipment, easing liquid and electronics regulations.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport has issued practical guidance to help passengers move swiftly through security screening. The advice focuses on preparation, clothing, and baggage regulations, with the aim of reducing delays and improving efficiency at the checkpoint.

Revised clothing and footwear suggestions

Travellers are encouraged to wear lightweight clothing and low-cut footwear, such as trainers or slip-ons, to pass through security with minimal delay. While coats or jackets may still be taken on board, passengers are advised to remove these before approaching the screening area. Footwear that rises above the ankle, including boots and heavy hiking shoes, should be packed in hold luggage or be easy to remove at the checkpoint.

Baggage and liquid regulations

Passengers are reminded to familiarise themselves with the baggage policies of their respective airlines before departure. Though traditional rules for liquids remain—limiting items to 100ml per container—the airport has implemented advanced security equipment that allows liquids, gels, sprays, and electronics to remain inside hand luggage during scanning.

Items such as laptops, tablets, and mobile phones no longer need to be separated at security. However, passengers should still ensure that liquids are easily accessible if additional screening is required. Double-walled thermos flasks should be brought empty.

Preparing for the security scan

To minimise time at the checkpoint, pockets should be emptied entirely. Phones, tissues, jewellery, and watches may either be worn or stored in hand luggage in advance. Belts and outerwear such as jackets, blazers, and shoes (excluding sneakers and lightweight sandals) must be placed in the tray for inspection.

Travellers are also asked to keep their boarding pass within reach until it has been scanned. Once it has been verified, it can be returned to hand luggage.

What happens if baggage is retained?

Occasionally, trays containing baggage may be held behind plexiglass on the conveyor for further inspection. This may result in short delays, especially during busy periods. Items will be returned promptly unless suspicious contents are detected.

Security personnel have requested that all instructions be followed without delay to ensure a smoother experience for all passengers.

How to get there

Rotterdam The Hague Airport is located in the northwest of the city, in the Overschie district. The airport is accessible via the A13 motorway and is connected to central Rotterdam by public transport, including bus 33 from Rotterdam Centraal Station.

ROTTERDAM, 29 May 2025 – Rotterdam The Hague Airport is set to close temporarily in 2028 for extensive maintenance work. The runway will be out of service for up to twelve weeks while infrastructure is renewed.

Major runway maintenance to temporarily close Rotterdam airport in 2028

Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTHA) will undergo significant maintenance to its only runway in the first half of 2028. The closure is expected to last between six and twelve weeks, during which all regular flight operations will be suspended. Only emergency and police helicopter traffic will remain operational, as these services use a separate helipad.

Renewal after two decades

The upcoming renovation follows the last major runway overhaul in 2008. The new works aim to extend the operational lifespan of the runway by addressing structural components in one integrated operation. Planned tasks include resurfacing the asphalt and replacing lighting systems. The project is being prepared with safety and long-term usability as central considerations.

A tender process to select a contractor will begin shortly, with the chosen company expected to be announced in early 2026. The exact start date and duration of the closure will be determined once a contractor is in place.

Limited impact on airport users

Airport operators have indicated that minimising disruption is a key priority during preparations. Airlines will be allowed to request temporary slots at other airports while RTHA is closed. Any unused slots during the maintenance period may be rescheduled within the same operational year.

Despite the closure, emergency services such as trauma helicopters and police air support will continue operating via their dedicated helicopter platform.

Directions to the airport

How to reach Rotterdam The Hague Airport

Rotterdam The Hague Airport is located in the north-western part of the city, in the Overschie district. The airport is accessible via the A13 motorway and is well connected by public transport, including bus lines and nearby metro stations. The area is known for its proximity to business parks and residential neighbourhoods.

ROTTERDAM, 22 August 2024 – Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTHA) is nearing the completion of a new airport decision request, which will establish the location and operational boundaries of the airport. This decision could lead to fewer night flights and reduced CO₂ emissions.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport plans for the future

Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTHA) has announced that it is in the final stages of submitting an application for a new airport decree ("luchthavenbesluit"). The new decree will outline key operational guidelines for the airport, including where it is located and the limits that airport users must adhere to.

One of the main objectives of the new decree is to reduce the impact on the surrounding environment. Several measures are being proposed to achieve this, with a focus on lowering emissions and minimising disturbances to local residents.

Key changes in the new airport decree

The upcoming decree is expected to bring several important changes, including:

• A reduction in the number of night flights;
• A freeze on the growth of commercial flights until at least 2030, with future growth dependent on innovation;
• A reduction in CO₂ emissions from the airport's operations.

Since 2022, multiple studies have been carried out in preparation for the application, including an environmental impact assessment. These studies are designed to provide evidence and support for the measures proposed in the decree.

Next steps in the application process

Rotterdam The Hague Airport expects to submit the application by the end of 2024 to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management. Once submitted, the approval process is anticipated to take about a year. If approved, the new airport decree would then come into effect, with the goal of significantly reducing the environmental footprint of the airport.

Directions to Rotterdam The Hague Airport

Rotterdam The Hague Airport is located to the north of the city, between Rotterdam and The Hague, making it accessible to both cities. Travellers can reach the airport by public transport via bus 33 from Rotterdam Central Station or by car via the A13 motorway. The airport is also a short drive from the centre of The Hague.