KLM took delivery of its first Airbus A321neo on Tuesday. The 227-seat aircraft was welcomed by the Dutch airline’s CEO, Marjan Rintel, at Airbus’ Hamburg facility.
I’ve been looking forward to this with great anticipation. The arrival of the first A321neo marks the start of replacing our Boeing 737 fleet. The A321neo produces less noise and CO2 and therefore contributes significantly to a cleaner, quieter future. It also offers more comfort. I am looking forward to see how our passengers will experience the new aircraft,” said Marjan.
The aircraft received the registration PH-AXA and flew to Amsterdam afterwards.
According to KLM, the A321neo will begin operating services to Copenhagen, Berlin and Stockholm from mid-September, followed by Paris, Prague and Vienna.
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KLM broke with the tradition of flying Boeing 737 jets, having operated models ranging from 737-200 to the current 737NG.
The fleet currently comprises 42 aircraft of the type, with an average age of 18 years. There are 31 Boeing 737-800s, six 737-700s and five 737-900s.
Despite this, KLM decided to change manufacturers, in line with the strategy of its partner, Air France.
In 2021, the group announced a comprehensive agreement with Airbus that also included aircraft from the A320neo family for the low-cost subsidiary Transavia, which until then had also operated only the 737.
In addition to being more efficient, the A321neo will also increase KLM’s seat offering as it has 38 more seats than the 737-900.
