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.
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