flatlander

You rang?

Guesstimating the situation at AMS, unless things are really critical (very low or zero arrival rate) then they tend to prioritise long haul arrivals and make short haul services wait via flow restrictions (and also cancellations) - so long ground holds for many short haul operators leading to delayed arrival but OK arrivals for long haul operations. That means the PHL-AMS is likely to get there OK.

For departure, again short haul takes most of the cancellations but all can end up waiting a lot for departure. Most long haul do leave eventually. Gate congestion can also be an issue, with a long queue for departures leading to inability to unload and reload passengers onto aircraft because no gates are free. That means the AMS-PHL is likely to leave, but to leave late. It may well board on time (and I doubt AA would keep their checkin open beyond the usual time) and wait on the ground for a departure slot.

As ever, prepare for the wait by boarding with a full set of entertainment and hydration, and an empty bladder.

This overview applies to all airlines at AMS.

florens

The runway is used for departures (only 26) from time to time. For landings, rarely.

alex67500

What's interesting is that it looks like they were lining up for 15 and then did a short turn to go into 26.

florens

This is the standard approach. I found that old chart online:

KARFA

Yes as shown by Florens there is no instrument approach in to 26 - I am assuming there is some high ground to the East. There are a few approaches like this across Europe where you effectively fly in towards another runway and then do a visual circle to land - some examples off the top of my head include Pisa, Slazburg, and Calvi

thebigben

I'm not impressed by the fact that the Gold Line was unreachable and that cancellations were announced only a few hours before flights were due but I'm happy to report the recovery went well. 12 hours after putting in my claim it was already resolved. I had to go slightly higher than the guidelines for meals and for one night of the hotel (staying in the ZRH Radisson Blu which is attached to the terminal, which was 220 GBP with breakfast this one time) but all went well.

So now I'll be a lot calmer next time this happens

BobServant

My claim was submitted on Monday, agreed with no quibbles (hotel, ~€60 for dinner for two and taxi to airport) and I had money yesterday so good recovery.

GentleGiant

You will be pleased to hear that I am not flying today 😂 😂 But my daughter is!