On the 27th of August, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines received its first Airbus A321neo after landing at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The introduction of this aircraft marks a significant milestone in KLM’s comprehensive renewal initiative aimed at promoting cleaner, quieter, and more efficient air travel. Starting in mid-September, the A321neo will commence operations in various European destinations, such as Berlin, Stockholm, and Copenhagen.
KLM being a Boeing fleet majorly for many decades is introducing its first narrow body Airbus aircraft into its fleet. The A321neo, fitted with advanced engines that enhance fuel efficiency and lower noise pollution, is anticipated to support KLM’s sustainability objectives.
“I have eagerly awaited this moment,” stated Marjan Rintel, President & CEO of KLM, in a press announcement. “The introduction of the first A321neo signifies the beginning of the transition from our Boeing 737 fleet. The A321neo generates reduced noise and CO2 emissions, thereby playing a crucial role in fostering a cleaner, quieter future. Additionally, it enhances passenger comfort. I am excited to see how our travelers will react to the new aircraft.”
KLM has not accepted delivery of a new Airbus plane in almost a decade, with the last being an A330-300 delivered in December 2014.
New Engine Option
The term “neo” signifies a new engine option: Offering unmatched range and performance, the A321neo is the largest member of Airbus’ best-selling A320neo Family. With sharklets installed and new generation CFM International LEAP-1A engines delivering maximum passenger comfort in the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky, the A321neo reduces noise pollution by 50% and saves at least 20% on fuel and CO₂ when compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft. More than 90 customers worldwide have ordered more than 6,400 A321neo aircraft to date. In terms of fuel efficiency per passenger tonne-kilometer, the A321neo is approximately 21% more efficient than the Boeing 737 it supersedes.
New Cabin experience
Passengers aboard the A321neo enjoy increased comfort due to broader seats, larger tables, and more spacious overhead compartments. Each seat features a USB-C charging port and a holder for a smartphone or tablet. The aircraft also provides greater convenience for the crew, including a wider aisle and easily accessible luggage compartments. The interior has been thoughtfully designed to enhance the KLM experience, incorporating more recognizable elements and mood lighting that adjusts throughout the journey.
New livery, New Names
The aircraft’s external paint scheme, or livery, has been updated to an eye-catching and useful design. The nose dome is entirely blue as the black line that divides the airline’s signature blue and white hues swoops farther down. The cockpit windows now have a black outline surrounding them, giving the appearance of sunglasses, which is another striking new addition similar to the newer Airbus A350 and A330neo aircraft.
This year, KLM plans to add three additional brand-new A321neo aircraft to its fleet. KLM is carrying on its habit of giving each new aircraft series a distinctive name. Different themes have been featured over the past 104 years, from names of the members of the Royal Family to bridges, aviation pioneers, and national parks. This time, KLM employees had the opportunity to pick the theme, and “Butterflies” emerged as the winning theme, which is extremely relevant to the change KLM starting with the new fleet.
The names of the first four A321neo aircraft will be Swallowtail, Peach Blossom, Common Brimstone, and Clouded Magpie.
New revival
Over the next few years, KLM plans to invest seven billion euros in fleet renewal; this amount represents a sizeable portion of its overall investment portfolio. KLM plans to swap out its aging Boeing 737s on European routes for Airbus A320 and A321neo planes. New E2 models will be stationed at KLM City hopper with Embraer 175 and 190 aircraft. KLM is set to introduce five new Boeing 787-10s for intercontinental flights. The aging 777s and A330s will be replaced by Airbus A350s. Finally, KLM has placed an order for four A350Fs to replace its 747 freighters in its cargo business.