I think I should divide this review based on departures vs. arrivals. This is from the perspective…read moreof a US citizen.
Arrivals:
We were warned that the lines would be long because the EU was launching a new biometric system where we put our fingerprints and passports into this machine thing and then that should let you past the gate and into the rest of the airport. it works for the most part, except my friend had issues getting through as her passport didn't get recognized. They pulled her aside for questioning. I waited near the exit wanting to shout "She's real, free my friend." but I figured I'd get in trouble. But 5 minutes later she came out of the gate. Then we waited in this massive room to grab our luggage. We noted so many pretty what is equivalent to TSA workers, even the security guards looked like models. Why can't we have that back home? Then we walked out of this massive airport and then we got our ride into Amsterdam
Departures:
We arrived 2.5 hours before our flight to Edinburgh and if we have waited in front of the massive queue to check in our luggage, we would have missed our flight. We opted for the check in machines. It took a bit to figure out, but I'd pick it over the big line. Then there was another massive line for security. The security is 2 parts - one to check your carry on and then another to check out of the country. this part almost cost us the flight because despite the various signs - people wouldn't empty their water bottles or liquids - or forget to take out the chargers and laptops - it was frustrating.
They also dont show the gate until an hour before so you have to run if its on the opposite side. I think it's an EU/UK thing, because this was a common occurrence in Amsterdam, Heathrow, and Edinburgh.
Then I had to run and I ran!! I ran so deep into the airport - thank god for those walking escalator things - it helped cut the time in half. And once I got on my plane I was huffing and puffing. But we all managed to make it in time.
long story short: for international flyers - go 4 hours early, bring running shoes, and good luck.