Security stepped up at Amsterdam airport following threat

Security was stepped up in and around Amsterdam's Schiphol airport today following a threat, local authorities said in a statement, adding that aviation was unaffected.

"In a joint meeting of the mayor, public prosecution office, chief (of) Royal Military Police and the police of the municipality of Haarlemmermeer in consultation with the (anti-terrorist police) NCTV it was decided to take additional security measures," read a statement issued by the municipality in which the airport lies.

"The airport and its surrounding area remain accessible and all operations can continue as usual," the statement said. Schiphol airport is one of the busiest in Europe.
 

It explained the move was prompted by a "signal" that "fits within the national threat level, which has been substantial since 2013."

The statement described the additional measures as both "visible" and "invisible," explaining that passengers would see more officers inside the airport.

Checks on vehicles entering the complex have led to tailbacks, local TV reported.