KLM#Branding

File:Klm-poster-1919.jpg

In 1919, a young aviator lieutenant named Albert Plesman sponsored the ELTA aviation exhibition in Amsterdam. Attendance at the exhibition was over half a million, and after it closed, several Dutch commercial interests intended to establish a Dutch airline, which Plesman was nominated to head.{{cite journal|journal=International Directory of Company Histories|year=1999|volume=28|title=Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij, N.V. History|url=http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/koninklijke-luchtvaart-maatschappij-n-v-history/|access-date=30 July 2013|archive-date=7 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150507092737/http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/koninklijke-luchtvaart-maatschappij-n-v-history/|url-status=live}} In September 1919, Queen Wilhelmina awarded the yet-to-be-founded KLM its "Royal" ("Koninklijke") predicate.{{cite web|title=History|url=http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/about-klm/history/index.html|work=KLM Corporate|publisher=KLM|access-date=30 July 2013|archive-date=24 July 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130724011731/http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/about-klm/history/index.html|url-status=live}} On 7 October 1919, eight Dutch businessmen, including Frits Fentener van Vlissingen, founded KLM as one of the first commercial airline companies. Plesman became its first administrator and director.

The first KLM flight took place on 17 May 1920. KNLM's first pilot, Jerry Shaw, flew from Croydon Airport, London, to Amsterdam. The flight was flown using a leased Aircraft Transport and Travel de Havilland DH-16, registration G-EALU, which was carrying two British journalists and some newspapers. In 1920, KLM carried 440 passengers and 22 tons of freight. In April 1921, after a winter hiatus, KLM resumed its services using its pilots, and Fokker F.II and Fokker F.III aircraft. In 1921, KLM started scheduled services.

File:COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Groepsportret voorafgaand aan het vertrek van directeur Rendorp van de KNILM per Fokker F-XII van de KLM naar Nederland TMnr 60027465.jpg, 1932]]

KLM's first intercontinental experimental flight took off on 1 October 1924. The final destination was Jakarta (then called 'Batavia'), Java, in the Dutch East Indies (present-day Indonesia); the flight used a Fokker F.VII with registration H-NACC and was piloted by Jan Thomassen à Thuessink van der Hoop.{{cite web | url=http://www.aviacrash.nl/paginas/h-nacc.htm | title=H-NACC | work=Aviacrash.nl | access-date=11 October 2015 | language=nl | archive-date=7 April 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230407203131/http://www.aviacrash.nl/paginas/h-nacc.htm | url-status=live }} In 1927, Baltimore millionaire Van Lear Black, who had heard about the 1924 flight, chartered H-NADP to do the same flight, which departed June 15 and went successfully (16 days), and flew back to much rejoicing. This inspired KLM to make a second test flight, which left on 1 October, returning successfully with much experience gained.{{cite web|url=https://www.klm-va.nl/php/sites/event_historical/history_fokker.php|title=Fokker F.VII/VIIb-3m|work=klm-va.nl|access-date=4 December 2022|language=en|archive-date=5 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221205065330/https://www.klm-va.nl/php/sites/event_historical/history_fokker.php|url-status=live}} In September 1929, regular scheduled services between Amsterdam and Batavia commenced. Until the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939, this was the world's longest-distance scheduled service by airplane. By 1926, it was offering flights to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Brussels, Paris, London, Bremen, Copenhagen, and Malmö, using primarily Fokker F.II and Fokker F.III aircraft.(Dutch) Albert Heijn, ed (1969) KL-50 – logboek van vijftig jaar vliegen. Meijer, Amsterdam.

File:COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Een groep Europeanen staat op het vliegveld Rambang voor het vliegtuig de Uiver dat is aangekomen op Lombok na afloop van de London-Melbourne-race in 1934 TMnr 10010712.jpg aircraft Uiver in transit at Rambang airfield on the east coast of Lombok island following the aircraft being placed second in the MacRobertson Air Race from RAF Mildenhall, England, to Melbourne in 1934{{cite web |last= |first= |date=October 7, 2019 |title=The Flying Dutchmen: 100 years of KLM |url=https://www.europeana.eu/en/blog/the-flying-dutchmen-100-years-of-klm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191008081520/https://blog.europeana.eu/2019/10/the-flying-dutchmen-100-years-of-klm/ |archive-date=8 October 2019 |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=Europeana}}]]

In 1930, KLM carried 15,143 passengers. The Douglas DC-2 was introduced on the Batavia service in 1934. The first experimental transatlantic KLM flight was between Amsterdam and Curaçao in December 1934 using the Fokker F.XVIII "Snip".

In July 1935 the KLM had three major international passenger flight crashes in one week. The "Kwikstaart" crashed in Amsterdam on 14 July, the "Maraboe" in Bushir and on 20 July and the “Gaai” crashed in San Giacomo.{{cite web|url=https://www.vergetenverleden.nl/KLM.html|title=Drie KLM vliegrampen in één week|website=vergetenverleden.nl|language=nl|access-date=1 September 2023|archive-date=7 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207171204/https://www.vergetenverleden.nl/KLM.html|url-status=live}} The week of 14 to 20 July 1935 is known as the "black week". In these three crashes KLM lost three airplanes and lost crew in two crashes. With an earlierer crash in April of the "Leeuwerik", KLM had lost in 1935 around 15% of its pilots.{{cite web|url=https://ilibrariana.wordpress.com/2017/06/01/luchtvaartpionier-j-s-w-van-der-feijst-1904-1935/|title=LUCHTVAARTPIONIER J.S.W.VAN DER FEIJST (1904-1935)|work=Librariana|date=June 2017|language=nl|access-date=1 September 2023|archive-date=12 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230812205404/https://ilibrariana.wordpress.com/2017/06/01/luchtvaartpionier-j-s-w-van-der-feijst-1904-1935/|url-status=live}} As a result there was a shortage of crew members and airplanes. The Amsterdam—Milan flight service was as a result taken over by Deutsche Lufthansa.{{cite web |url= http://www.aviacrash.nl/paginas/gaai.htm |title= De Gaai verongelukt bij San Giacomo |website= aviacrash.nl |language= nl |access-date= 1 September 2023 |archive-date= 12 August 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230812100346/http://www.aviacrash.nl/paginas/gaai.htm |url-status= live }}

The first of the airline's Douglas DC-3 aircraft were delivered in 1936; these replaced the DC-2s on the service via Batavia to Sydney. KLM was the first airline to serve Manchester's new Ringway airport, starting in June 1938. KLM was the only civilian airline to receive the Douglas DC-5; the airline used two of them in the West Indies and sold two to the East Indies government, and is thus the only airline to have operated all Douglas 'DC' models other than the DC-1.

File:Douglas C-47A PH-TBP KLM ed Ringway 20.05.47 edited-2.jpg at Manchester Airport in 1947]]

The outbreak of the Second World War in September 1939 restricted KLM's operations, with flights over France and Germany prohibited, and many of its aircraft painted in overall orange to limit the potential for confusion with military aircraft. European routes were limited to services to Scandinavia, Belgium and the UK, with flights to Lisbon (bypassing both British and French airspace) starting in April 1940.{{sfn|West Air-Britain Archive Autumn 2011|p=134}}

When Germany invaded the Netherlands on 10 May 1940, several KLM aircraft—mostly DC-3s and a few DC-2s—were en route to or from the Far East, or were operating services in Europe. Five DC-3s and one DC-2 were taken to Britain. During the war, these aircraft and crew members flew scheduled passenger flights between Bristol and Lisbon under BOAC flight numbers and registration.{{citation needed|date=November 2015}}{{Cite journal |last=West |first=Michael |date=September 2011 |title=KLM in World War 2 |url=https://air-britain.com/pdfs/archive/Archive_2011.pdf |journal=Air-Britain Archive |volume=32 |issue=3 |page=134 |issn=0262-4923}}

On 3 March 1942, Douglas DC-3 PH-ALP "Pelikaan", then registered as PK-AFV, was shot down over Western Australia by Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service Mitsubishi A6M Zeros during the attack on Broome while carrying a package of diamonds. The DC-3 crash landed at Carnot Bay, 80 kilometers from Broome. Pelikaan was subsequently strafed by the Zeros that had shot it down, killing three passengers and the flight engineer. Diamonds worth an estimated 150,000–300,000 Australian pounds were stolen from the wreckage of the aircraft, and nobody has been convicted of the crime.

Douglas DC-3 PH-ALI "Ibis", then registered as G-AGBB, was attacked by the Luftwaffe on 15 November 1942, 19 April 1943, and finally shot down on 1 June 1943 as BOAC Flight 777, killing all passengers and crew.

Some KLM aircraft and their crews ended up in the Australia-Dutch East Indies region, where they helped transport refugees from Japanese aggression in that area.{{cite web|date=2019-10-07|title=Celebrating KLM Royal Dutch Airlines 100th Anniversary|url=https://metroairportnews.com/celebrating-klm-royal-dutch-airlines-100th-anniversary/|access-date=2022-02-25|website=Metropolitan Airport News|language=en-US|archive-date=8 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220308154722/https://metroairportnews.com/celebrating-klm-royal-dutch-airlines-100th-anniversary/|url-status=live}}

Although operations paused in Europe, KLM continued to fly and expand in the Caribbean.{{cite web |last=Ogier |first=Frido |date=2016-05-05 |title=From Snipe to ALM – The history of KLM's West-Indian Operation |url=https://blog.klm.com/from-snipe-to-alm-the-history-of-klms-west-indian-operation/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191008133916/https://blog.klm.com/from-snipe-to-alm-the-history-of-klms-west-indian-operation/ |archive-date=8 October 2019 |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=blog.klm.com}}

{{Rail freight

|title=Revenue passenger-kilometers, scheduled flights only, in millions

|float=left

|1947|454

|1950|766

|1955|1,485

|1960|2,660

|1965|3,342

|1971|6,330

|1975|10,077

|1980|14,058

|1985|18,039

|1995|44,458

|source=ICAO Digest of Statistics for 1947–55, IATA World Air Transport Statistics 1960–1995

}}

After the end of the Second World War in August 1945, KLM immediately started to rebuild its network. Since the Dutch East Indies were in a state of revolt, Plesman prioritised re-establishing KLM's route to Batavia. This service was reinstated by the end of 1945. Domestic and European flights resumed in September 1945, initially with a fleet of Douglas DC-3s and Douglas DC-4s. On 21 May 1946, KLM was the first continental European airline to start scheduled transatlantic flights between Amsterdam and New York City using Douglas DC-4 aircraft. By 1948, KLM had reconstructed its network and services to Africa, North and South America, and the Caribbean resumed.

File:Lockheed L-749A PH-TDK KLM RWY 07.07.53 edited-2.jpg of KLM in 1953]]

Long-range, pressurized Lockheed Constellations{{cite web |last=Ogier |first=Frido |date=2014-09-20 |title=A Gracious Lady – The Lockheed Constellation |url=https://blog.klm.com/a-gracious-lady-the-lockheed-constellation/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151224103927/https://blog.klm.com/a-gracious-lady-the-lockheed-constellation/ |archive-date=24 December 2015 |access-date=2023-11-24 |work=KLM Blog}} and Douglas DC-6s{{cite web |last=Platoni |first=Kara |date=2009-07-01 |title=The Six |url=https://www.smithsonianmag.com/air-space-magazine/the-six-136034182/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151223190708/http://www.airspacemag.com/ist/?next=%2Fhistory-of-flight%2Fthe-six-136034182%2F |archive-date=23 December 2015 |access-date=2023-11-24 |publisher=Smithsonian (magazine)}} joined KLM's fleet in the late 1940s; the Convair 240 short-range pressurized twin-engine airliner began European flights for the company in late 1948.{{cite book|author=KLM (Airline)|title=Report|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=C0klAAAAMAAJ|year=1953}}

During the immediate post-war period, the Dutch government expressed interest in gaining a majority stake in KLM, thus partially nationalizing it. Plesman wanted KLM to remain a private company under private control; he allowed the Dutch government to acquire a minority stake in the airline. In 1950, KLM carried 356,069 passengers. The expansion of the network continued in the 1950s with the addition of several destinations in western North America. KLM's fleet expanded with the addition of new versions of the Lockheed Constellation and Lockheed Electra, of which KLM was the first European airline to fly.

File:Vickers Viscount 803 PH-VIF KLM RWY 08.64 edited-4.jpg 803]]

On 31 December 1953, the founder and president of KLM, Albert Plesman, died at the age of 64.{{cite journal |title=The Flying Dutchman is Forty |journal=Flight International |date=2 October 1959 |volume=76 |issue=2638 |page=321 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1959/1959%20-%202512.html |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=7 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190107045907/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1959/1959%20-%202512.html |url-status=live }}{{cite journal|title=The Netherlands' Aviation Industry – KLM Royal Dutch Airlines|journal=Flight International|date=13 May 1971|volume=99|issue=3244|page=686|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1971/1971%20-%200777.html|access-date=17 February 2013|archive-date=7 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190107045909/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1971/1971%20-%200777.html|url-status=live}} He was succeeded as president by Fons Aler.{{cite journal |title=Civil Aviation – To Succeed Dr. Plesman |journal=Flight International |date=19 March 1954 |volume=65 |issue=2356 |page=347 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1954/1954%20-%200767.html |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522040235/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1954/1954%20-%200767.html |url-status=live }} After Plesman's death, the company and other airlines entered a difficult economic period. The conversion to jet aircraft placed a further financial burden on KLM. The Netherlands government increased its ownership of the company to two-thirds, thus partly nationalizing it. The board of directors remained under the control of private shareholders.

On 25 July 1957, the airline introduced its flight simulator for the Douglas DC-7C – the last KLM aircraft with piston engines – which opened the transpolar route from Amsterdam via Anchorage to Tokyo on 1 November 1958. Each crew flying the transpolar route over the Arctic was equipped with a winter survival kit, including a 7.62 mm selective-fire AR-10 carbine for use against polar bears, in the event the plane was forced down onto the polar ice.Pikula, Sam (Major), The ArmaLite AR-10, Regnum Publications (1998), p. 73 The four-engine turboprop Vickers Viscount 800 was introduced on European routes in 1957.{{cite web|url=http://www.timetableimages.com/|title=Airline Timetable Images|website=www.timetableimages.com|access-date=2 August 2018|archive-date=2 February 2001|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010202024400/http://www.timetableimages.com/|url-status=live}} Beginning in September 1959, KLM introduced the four-engine turboprop Lockheed L-188 Electra onto some of its European and Middle Eastern routes.

In March 1960, the airline introduced the first Douglas DC-8 jet into its fleet. In 1961, KLM reported its first year of losses. In 1961, the airline's president Fons Aler was succeeded by Ernst van der Beugel. However, This leadership change did not lead to a reversal of KLM's financial difficulties. Van der Beugel resigned as president in 1963 for health reasons.{{cite journal |title=KLM Directors Resign |journal=Flight International |date=10 January 1963 |volume=83 |issue=2809 |page=45 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1963/1963%20-%200045.html |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522042310/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1963/1963%20-%200045.html |url-status=live }} Horatius Albarda was appointed to succeed Ernst van der Beugel as president of KLM in 1963.{{cite journal |title=KLM's New President |journal=Flight International |date=27 June 1963 |volume=83 |issue=2833 |page=1010 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1963/1963%20-%201041.html |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522054143/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1963/1963%20-%201041.html |url-status=live }} Albarda initiated a reorganization of the company, which led to the reduction of staff and air services. In 1965, Albarda died in an air crash and was succeeded as president by Dr. Gerrit van der Wal.{{cite journal|title=Death of KLM President|journal=Flight International|date=27 May 1965|volume=87|issue=2933|page=820|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1965/1965%20-%201472.html|access-date=17 February 2013|archive-date=22 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522032422/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1965/1965%20-%201472.html|url-status=live}}{{cite journal|title=New KLM President|journal=Flight International|date=24 June 1965|volume=87|issue=2937|page=1010|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1965/1965%20-%201900.html|access-date=17 February 2013|archive-date=22 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522045602/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1965/1965%20-%201900.html|url-status=live}} Van der Wal forged an agreement with the Dutch government that KLM would be once again run as a private company. By 1966, the stake of the Dutch government in KLM was reduced to a minority stake of 49.5%. In 1966, KLM introduced the Douglas DC-9 on European and Middle East routes.

File:Lockheed 188 Electra PH-LLD KLM 07.65.jpg turboprop airliner in 1965]]

The new terminal buildings at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol opened in April 1967, and in 1968 the stretched Douglas DC-8-63 ("Super DC-8") entered service. With 244 seats, the Super DC-8 was the largest airliner in scheduled passenger service at the time, although its size was surpassed by that of the Boeing 747 first flown in 1969. On 6 March 1967,{{Cite web|url=https://active.boeing.com/commercial/orders/displaystandardreport.cfm?cboCurrentModel=747&optReportType=AllModels&cboAllModel=747&ViewReportF=View+Report|title=747 Model Summary|publisher=Boeing|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201008190936/http://active.boeing.com/commercial/orders/displaystandardreport.cfm?cboCurrentModel=747&optReportType=AllModels&cboAllModel=747&ViewReportF=View+Report|url-status=dead|archive-date=2020-10-08|access-date=June 26, 2023}} KLM ordered the 747 as its first Boeing aircraft, which marked the beginning of its use of widebody aircraft and an improved relationship between the airline and Boeing since the 1939 crash of a Boeing 307 Stratoliner carrying KLM representatives on a demonstration flight.{{cite book|last=Serling|first= Robert J.|date=1992|title=Legend & Legacy: The Story of Boeing and Its People|location=New York|publisher=St. Martin's Press|page=156|isbn=031205890X}} To negotiate for lower unit prices and form a maintenance pool for its 747 fleet, KLM formed the KSS maintenance consortium in 1969 with Scandinavian Airlines and Swissair.{{Cite web|url=https://www.boeing.com/commercial/aeromagazine/aero_01/textonly/a01txt.html|title=SAS : The United Nations of the Air|publisher=Boeing|access-date=June 26, 2023|archive-date=26 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230626094512/https://www.boeing.com/commercial/aeromagazine/aero_01/textonly/a01txt.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.key.aero/article/rise-and-fall-swissair|title=The rise and fall of Swissair|author=Otto, K.|publisher=Key.Aero|date=10 July 2022|access-date=26 June 2023|archive-date=26 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230626094512/https://www.key.aero/article/rise-and-fall-swissair|url-status=live}} {{subscription required}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.key.aero/article/klms-dutch-queens-sky|title=KLM's Dutch Queens of the Skies|author=Cross, L.|publisher=Key.Aero|date=7 April 2021|access-date=16 February 2024|archive-date=16 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240216111215/https://www.key.aero/article/klms-dutch-queens-sky|url-status=live}} {{subscription required}} Despite showing initial interest in the prototype 747-100 variant, KLM instead acquired the higher-gross-weight 747-200B powered by Pratt & Whitney JT9D engines, becoming the first airline to put the type into service on 14 February 1971.{{cite web |title=Aircraft owner's and operator's guide: 747-200/-300 |url=https://www.aircraft-commerce.com/sample_article_folder/owners_guide.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111009004335/http://www.aircraft-commerce.com/sample_articles/sample_articles/owners_guide.pdf |archive-date=9 October 2011 |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=Aircraft Commerce |publisher=}} In March 1971, KLM opened its current headquarters in Amstelveen. In 1972, it purchased the first of several McDonnell Douglas DC-10 aircraft—McDonnell Douglas's response to the 747.

File:KLM Boeing 747-206 Volpati-1.jpg in 1971]]

In 1973, Sergio Orlandini was appointed to succeed Gerrit van der Wal as president of KLM.{{cite web |last=Vischer |first=Freddy |title=The years 1969 – 1978 |url=http://www.tca.viscal.net/klm/history/histo-1969-1978.htm |publisher=Tradewind Caribbean Airlines |access-date=17 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130705020245/http://www.tca.viscal.net/klm/history/histo-1969-1978.htm |archive-date=5 July 2013 }} At the time, KLM, as well as other airlines, had to deal with overcapacity. Orlandini proposed to convert KLM 747s to "combis" that could carry a combination of passengers and freight in a mixed configuration on the main deck of the aircraft. In November 1975, the first of these seven Boeing 747-200BM Combi aircraft were added to the KLM fleet. The airline previously operated DC-8 passenger and freight combi aircraft as well and later operated Boeing 747-400 combi aircraft.

The 1973 oil crisis, which caused difficult economic conditions, led KLM to seek government assistance in arranging debt refinancing. The airline issued additional shares of stock to the government in return for its money. In the late 1970s, the government's stake had again increased to a majority of 78%, effectively re-nationalizing it. The company management remained under the control of private stakeholders.

File:McDonnell Douglas DC-8-63, KLM - Royal Dutch Airlines AN1108402.jpg at London Heathrow Airport in 1982. The DC-8 was the mainstay of the KLM narrowbody jet fleet.]]

In 1980, KLM carried 9,715,069 passengers. In 1983, it reached an agreement with Boeing to upgrade ten of its Boeing 747-200 aircraft (Three 747-200Bs and seven 747-200Ms) with the stretched-upper-deck modification. The work started in 1984 at the Boeing factory in Everett, Washington, and finished in 1986. The converted aircraft were called Boeing 747-200SUD or 747-300, which the airline operated in addition to three newly built Boeing 747-300s manufactured from the ground up. In 1983, KLM took delivery of the first of ten Airbus A310 passenger jets. Sergio Orlandini retired in 1987 and was succeeded as president of KLM by Jan de Soet.{{cite journal |title=News Scan – KLM Royal Dutch Airlines |journal=Flight International |date=8 November 1986 |volume=130 |issue=4036 |page=8 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1986/1986%20-%202950.html |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522060609/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1986/1986%20-%202950.html |url-status=live }} In 1986, the Dutch government's shareholding in KLM was reduced to 54.8 percent. It was expected that this share would be further reduced during the decade. The Boeing 747-400 was introduced into KLM's fleet in June 1989.

With the liberalization of the European market, KLM started developing its hub at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol by feeding its network with traffic from affiliated airlines. As part of its development of a worldwide network, KLM acquired a 20% stake in Northwest Airlines in July 1989. In 1990, KLM carried 16,000,000 passengers. KLM president Jan de Soet retired at the end of 1990 and was succeeded in 1991 by Pieter Bouw.{{cite journal |title=KLM Names New MD |journal=Flight International |date=28 February 1990 |volume=137 |issue=4205 |page=36 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1990/1990%20-%200572.html |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522035258/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1990/1990%20-%200572.html |url-status=live }} In December 1991, KLM was the first European airline to introduce a frequent flyer loyalty program, which was called Flying Dutchman.

{{multiple image

| direction = vertical

| width = 220

| image1 = Northwest Airlines-KLM DC-10 hybrid livery Spijkers.jpg

| caption1 = A McDonnell Douglas DC-10 operated by Northwest Airlines (tail number N237NW) in a hybrid Northwest-KLM livery (1999). This photo shows the starboard (above) and port side of the aircraft (below).

| image2 = Northwest Airlines-KLM DC-10 hybrid livery KvW.jpg

}}

In January 1993 the United States Department of Transportation granted KLM and Northwest Airlines anti-trust immunity, which allowed them to intensify their partnership. As of September 1993, the airlines operated their flights between the United States and Europe as part of a joint venture. In March 1994, KLM and Northwest Airlines introduced World Business Class on intercontinental routes. KLM's stake in Northwest Airlines was increased to 25% in 1994.

KLM introduced the Boeing 767-300ER in July 1995. In January 1996, KLM acquired a 26% share in Kenya Airways, the flag-carrier airline of Kenya. In 1997, Pieter Bouw resigned as president of KLM and was succeeded by Leo van Wijk.{{cite journal |title=People at KLM |journal=Flight International |date=4 June 1997 |volume=151 |issue=4577 |page=52 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1997/1997%20-%201500.html |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522041821/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1997/1997%20-%201500.html |url-status=live }} In August 1998, KLM repurchased all regular shares from the Dutch government to make KLM a private company. On 1 November 1999, KLM founded AirCares, a communication and fundraising platform supporting worthy causes and focusing on underprivileged children.

KLM renewed its intercontinental fleets by replacing the Boeing 767s, Boeing 747-300s, and eventually, the McDonnell Douglas MD-11s with Boeing 777-200ERs and Airbus A330-200s. Some 747s were withdrawn from service first. The MD-11s remained in service until October 2014.{{cite news | url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/tedreed/2014/11/15/good-bye-md-11-too-bad-nobody-ever-loved-you/ | title=Good Bye MD-11 – Too Bad Nobody Ever Loved You | work=Forbes | date=15 November 2014 | access-date=10 October 2015 | author=Ted Reed | archive-date=26 August 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826104542/https://www.forbes.com/sites/tedreed/2014/11/15/good-bye-md-11-too-bad-nobody-ever-loved-you/ | url-status=live }}{{cite press release | url=http://news.klm.com/klm-operates-last-md-11-passenger-flight | title=KLM Operates Last MD-11 Passenger Flight | publisher=KLM | date=26 October 2014 | access-date=10 October 2015 | archive-date=29 September 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150929012956/http://news.klm.com/klm-operates-last-md-11-passenger-flight | url-status=live }} The first Boeing 777 was received on 25 October 2003, while the first Airbus A330-200 was introduced on 25 August 2005.

On 30 September 2003 Air France and KLM agreed to a merger plan in which Air France and KLM would become subsidiaries of a holding company called Air France-KLM. Both airlines would retain their own brands; both Charles de Gaulle Airport and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol would become key hubs.{{cite news|title=Air France and KLM get close|url=http://www.economist.com/node/2098740|newspaper=The Economist|access-date=17 February 2013|date=6 October 2003|archive-date=24 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024040745/http://www.economist.com/node/2098740|url-status=live}} In February 2004 the European Commission and United States Department of Justice approved the proposed merger of the airlines.{{cite press release |title=Commission clears merger between Air France and KLM subject to conditions |url=http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_IP-04-194_en.htm |publisher=European Commission |date=11 February 2004 |access-date=18 February 2013 |archive-date=21 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130521234953/http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_IP-04-194_en.htm |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=History 2004 |url=http://www.skyteam.com/en/About-us/Organization/History/2004/ |publisher=SkyTeam |access-date=18 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130208012936/http://www.skyteam.com/en/About-us/Organization/History/2004/ |archive-date=8 February 2013}} In April 2004 an exchange offer in which KLM shareholders exchanged their KLM shares for Air France shares took place.{{cite press release |title=Air France exchange offer for all common shares of KLM |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/56316/000115697304000389/u47326e425.htm |publisher=Air France |date=2 April 2004 |access-date=18 February 2013 |archive-date=2 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130602064204/http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/56316/000115697304000389/u47326e425.htm |url-status=live }} Since 5 May 2004 Air France-KLM has been listed on the Euronext exchanges in Paris, Amsterdam and New York.{{cite web |url=http://www.airfranceklm-finance.com/en/content/download/5076/32313/file/Reference-Document_2004-05_EN.pdf |title=2004–05 Reference Document |date=12 July 2005 |publisher=Air France–KLM Finance |access-date=18 February 2013 |page=6 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131019120023/http://www.airfranceklm-finance.com/en/content/download/5076/32313/file/Reference-Document_2004-05_EN.pdf |archive-date=19 October 2013 |url-status=dead }} In September 2004, the merger was completed by creation of the Air France-KLM holding company. The merger resulted in the world's largest airline group and should have led to an estimated annual cost-saving of between €400 million and €500 million.{{cite press release |title=Air France – KLM, A Global Airline Market Leader |url=http://corporate.airfrance.com/uploads/media/airfrance_klm_a_global_airline_market_leader_01.pdf |publisher=Air France / KLM |date=5 May 2004 |access-date=18 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130623150458/http://corporate.airfrance.com/uploads/media/airfrance_klm_a_global_airline_market_leader_01.pdf |archive-date=23 June 2013}}

It did not appear that KLM's longstanding joint venture with Northwest Airlines—which merged with Delta Air Lines in 2008—was affected by the merger with Air France. KLM and Northwest joined the SkyTeam alliance in September 2004. Also in 2004, senior management came under fire for providing itself with controversial bonuses after the merger with Air France, while 4,500 jobs were lost at KLM. After external pressure, management gave up on these bonuses.{{Cite web |url=https://www.eurofound.europa.eu/publications/article/2004/klm-senior-managers-forgo-controversial-bonuses |title=KLM senior managers forgo controversial bonuses |publisher=Eurofound |access-date=21 June 2023 |archive-date=21 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230621043212/https://www.eurofound.europa.eu/publications/article/2004/klm-senior-managers-forgo-controversial-bonuses |url-status=live }}

In March 2007 KLM started to use the Amadeus CRS reservation system, along with partner Kenya Airways. After 10 years as president of the airline, Leo van Wijk resigned from his position and was succeeded by Peter Hartman.{{cite web |title=People: 5 December 2006 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/people-5-december-2006-210896/ |publisher=Flight International |access-date=17 February 2013 |date=5 December 2006 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522051535/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/people-5-december-2006-210896/ |url-status=live }}

File:PH-BGU.jpg with a "100 year" livery taking off from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport]]

Beginning in September 2010, KLM integrated the passenger division of Martinair into KLM, transferring all personnel and routes. By November 2011, Martinair consisted of only the cargo and maintenance division.{{cite web|title=Laatste passagiersvlucht Martinair |url=http://www.blikopnieuws.nl/bericht/136430/Laatste_passagiersvlucht_Martinair.html |publisher=Blik op Nieuws.nl |access-date=1 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111101142242/http://www.blikopnieuws.nl/bericht/136430/Laatste_passagiersvlucht_Martinair.html |archive-date= 1 November 2011 |date=31 October 2011 |url-status=dead }} In March 2011, KLM and InselAir reached an agreement for cooperation on InselAir destinations, thus expanding its passenger services. Beginning 27 March 2011, KLM passengers could fly to all InselAir destinations through InselAir's hubs in Curaçao and Sint Maarten.{{cite press release | url=https://www.facebook.com/notes/inselair/inselair-and-klm-sign-agreement/197906790229712 | title=InselAir and KLM sign agreement | publisher=InselAir | date=18 March 2011 | access-date=13 October 2015 | archive-date=11 September 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911194744/https://www.facebook.com/notes/inselair/inselair-and-klm-sign-agreement/197906790229712 | url-status=live }}{{cite news | url=http://www.routesonline.com/news/29/breaking-news/104521/inselair-to-offer-regional-flights-for-klm/ | title=InselAir to Offer Regional Flights for KLM | publisher=Routes Online | date=21 March 2011 | access-date=13 October 2015 | archive-date=7 July 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170707202351/http://www.routesonline.com//news/29/breaking-news/104521/inselair-to-offer-regional-flights-for-klm/ | url-status=live }} This cooperation was extended to a code share agreement in 2012.{{cite press release | url=http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-en-inselair-starten-een-codeshare-en/ | title=KLM and InselAir To Initiate Code-Sharing | publisher=KLM | access-date=13 October 2015 | archive-date=22 December 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222090104/http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-en-inselair-starten-een-codeshare-en/ | url-status=live }} In early 2018, the cooperation with Inselair was terminated, including any interlining agreements, after Inselair found itself in financial difficulties which forced the airline to sell off part of its fleet and cancel some of its routes.{{cite web |url=http://curacaochronicle.com/local/klm-ends-cooperation-with-inselair/ |title=KLM ends cooperation with InselAir – Curaçao Chronicle |publisher=curacaochronicle.com |date=16 February 2018 |access-date=30 May 2018 |archive-date=8 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180608145347/http://curacaochronicle.com/local/klm-ends-cooperation-with-inselair/ |url-status=live }}

On 20 February 2013, KLM announced that Peter Hartman would resign as president and CEO of KLM on 1 July 2013. He was succeeded by Camiel Eurlings. Hartman remained employed by the company until he retired on 1 January 2014.{{cite press release |title=Camiel Eurlings Appointed KLM President & CEO |url=http://nieuws.klm.com/camiel-eurlings-wordt-president-directeur-van-klm-en/ |publisher=KLM |date=20 February 2013 |access-date=20 February 2013 |archive-date=23 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130223024555/http://nieuws.klm.com/camiel-eurlings-wordt-president-directeur-van-klm-en |url-status=live }} On 15 October 2014, KLM announced that Eurlings, in joint consultation with the supervisory board, had decided to immediately resign as president and CEO. As of this date, he was succeeded by Pieter Elbers.{{cite press release |title=Pieter Elbers appointed President and CEO of KLM, replacing Camiel Eurlings |url=http://news.klm.com/en/pieter-elbers-appointed-president-and-ceo-of-klm-replacing-camiel-eurlings/ |publisher=KLM |date=15 October 2014 |access-date=15 October 2014 |archive-date=7 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190107045913/https://news.klm.com/en/pieter-elbers-appointed-president-and-ceo-of-klm-replacing-camiel-eurlings/%20 |url-status=live }} KLM received the award for "Best Airline Staff Service" in Europe at the World Airline Awards 2013. This award represents the rating for an airline's performance across both airport staff and cabin staff combined.{{cite web |title=The Best Airline Staff Service in Europe |url=http://www.worldairlineawards.com/Awards_2013/svcexceurope.htm |publisher=Skytrax |access-date=22 June 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130802030713/http://www.worldairlineawards.com/awards_2013/svcexceurope.htm |archive-date=2 August 2013}} It is the second consecutive year that KLM won this award; in 2012 it was awarded this title as well.{{cite web|title=KLM Royal Dutch Airlines wins award for the 2012 Best Airline Staff Service in Europe |url=http://www.worldairlineawards.com/Awards_2012/svcexceurope.htm |publisher=Skytrax |access-date=22 June 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120715180312/http://www.worldairlineawards.com/Awards_2012/svcexceurope.htm |archive-date=15 July 2012}} On 19 June 2012, KLM made the first transatlantic flight fueled partly by sustainable biofuels to Rio de Janeiro. This was the longest distance any aircraft had flown on biofuels.{{cite web |url=http://www.klmtakescare.com/en/content/biofuel-flight-to-rio |title=Biofuel flight to Rio |publisher=Klmtakescare.com |access-date=29 November 2012 |archive-date=25 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120625035422/http://klmtakescare.com/en/content/biofuel-flight-to-rio |url-status=live }}

In 2019, KLM celebrated its centennial, as it was founded in 1919. Since it is the oldest airline still operating under its original name, it was the first airline to achieve this feat.{{cite web |url=https://www.id-international.eu/klm-turns-100-one-of-the-oldest-airlines-in-the-world/#:~:text=The%20Dutch%20airline%20KLM%20celebrates,skies%20on%2017%20May%201920. |title=KLM turns 100 — one of the oldest airlines in the world! |date=9 October 2019 |access-date=9 October 2020 |archive-date=3 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230603103444/https://www.id-international.eu/klm-turns-100-one-of-the-oldest-airlines-in-the-world/#:~:text=The%20Dutch%20airline%20KLM%20celebrates,skies%20on%2017%20May%201920. |url-status=live }}

Being heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, KLM cut at least 6,000 jobs in total. It also said that the decision of the government to have all the passengers and crew COVID-19 tested before flying will have an impact on its flights.{{cite web|date=2021-01-21|title=KLM to cut 1,000 more jobs, says mandatory COVID-19 testing will ground planes|url=https://arab.news/crhxv|access-date=2021-01-21|website=Arab News|language=en}} On 16 December 2021, Air France-KLM announced an order for 100 Airbus A320neos to be divided between Transavia and KLM.{{cite web |date=16 December 2021 |title=Air France-KLM orders 100 Airbus A320neo family aircraft |url=https://www.airfranceklm.com/en/air-france-klm-orders-100-airbus-a320neo-family-aircraft-purchase-rights-additional-60-aircraft-klm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240219102344/https://www.airfranceklm.com/en/air-france-klm-orders-100-airbus-a320neo-family-aircraft-purchase-rights-additional-60-aircraft-klm |archive-date=19 February 2024 |access-date=6 May 2024 |website=airfranceklm.com |publisher=Air France-KLM |language=English}} In July 2022, KLM was forced to cut their summer schedule due to disruption at airports across Europe.{{Cite web |last=McMinn |first=Josh |date=2022-07-11 |title=KLM to cut down summer schedule |url=https://travelradar.aero/klm-cut-down-summer-schedule/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220711214800/https://travelradar.aero/klm-to-cut-down-summer-schedule/ |archive-date=11 July 2022 |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=Travel Radar}}{{Better source needed|date=April 2024|reason=WP:Simple Flying is unreliable}}

Key business and operating results of KLM are shown below (as at year ending 31 December):{{Cite web |title=KLM Annual Reports |url=https://www.klmannualreport.com/ |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=KLM |language=nl-NL}}

{{As of|July 2022}}, KLM's corporate leader is its president and chief executive officer (CEO) Marjan Rintel, who succeeded Pieter Elbers. The president and CEO is part of the larger Executive Committee, which manages KLM and consists of the statutory managing directors and executive vice-presidents of KLM's business units that are represented in the Executive Committee.{{cite web |title=KLM Management |url=http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/about-klm/management/index.html |publisher=KLM Corporate |access-date=2 February 2013 |archive-date=14 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130214054852/http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/about-klm/management/index.html |url-status=live }} The supervision and management of KLM are structured following the two-tier model; the Board of Managing Directors is supervised by a separate and independent Supervisory Board. The Supervisory Board also supervises the general performance of KLM.{{cite web|url=http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/images/annual%20report%202011_tcm729-411136.pdf|title=KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Annual Report 2011|year=2011|publisher=KLM Corporate|access-date=2 February 2013|pages=41, 42|archive-date=2 December 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121202042800/http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/images/annual%20report%202011_tcm729-411136.pdf|url-status=live}} The Board of Managing Directors is formed by the four Managing Directors, including the CEO. Nine Supervisory Directors compose the Supervisory Board.

File:KLM hoofdkantoor Amstelveen.jpg]]

KLM's head office is located in Amstelveen,{{cite web |title=Contact – Visiting address |url=http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/contact/index.html |publisher=KLM Corporate |access-date=2 February 2013 |archive-date=21 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130121020904/http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/contact/index.html |url-status=live }} on a {{convert|16|acre|ha|adj=on|order=flip}} site near Schiphol Airport. The airline's current headquarters was built between 1968 and 1970.{{cite journal |title=KLM's New Head Office |journal=Flight International |date=6 June 1968 |volume=93 |issue=3091 |page=855 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1968/1968%20-%200895.html |access-date=2 February 2013 |archive-date=29 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121129083107/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1968/1968%20-%200895.html |url-status=live }} Before the opening of the new headquarters, the airline's head office was on the property of Schiphol Airport in Haarlemmermeer.{{cite journal|title=KLM (Konninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij NV)|journal=Flight International|date=10 April 1969|volume=95|issue=3135|page=578|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1969/1969%20-%201831.html|access-date=2 February 2013|archive-date=27 September 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927135138/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1969/1969%20-%201831.html|url-status=live}}

Companies in which KLM has a stake include:{{cite web|url = http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/images/Annual_report_2012_tcm729-436908.pdf|title = KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Annual Report 2012|date = 19 March 2013|publisher = KLM Corporate|access-date = 10 July 2013|page = 16|archive-date = 10 November 2013|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131110235025/http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/images/Annual_report_2012_tcm729-436908.pdf|url-status = live}}

Subsidiaries, associates, and joint ventures of KLM in the past include:

KLM also worked closely with ALM Antillean Airlines in the Caribbean to provide air service for the Dutch-controlled islands in the region with KLM aircraft such as the Douglas DC-8 and McDonnell Douglas DC-9-30 being operated by KLM flight crews on behalf of ALM.

File:EHAM18072010 PH-BFC KLM (4806800714).jpg in KLM Asia livery. Pictured is PH-BFC, the aircraft involved in the KLM Flight 867 incident. This aircraft served the subsidiary from 1995 to 2012 before being transferred to KLM and repainted in the mainline KLM livery, where it remained in service until its retirement on 14 March 2018.]]

KLM Asia ({{lang-zh|t=荷蘭亞洲航空公司|p=Hélán Yàzhōu Hángkōng Gōngsī}}) is a wholly owned subsidiary registered in Taiwan. The subsidiary was established in 1995 to allow KLM to continue operating flights to Taipei without compromising the mainline KLM's traffic rights for destinations in the People's Republic of China.{{cite web|title=KLM History|url=http://www.theklmsource.com/history.html|work=The KLM Source|access-date=20 February 2013|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130719044400/http://www.theklmsource.com/history.html|archive-date=19 July 2013}} Aircraft operated by the subsidiary retain their Dutch registration and the basic KLM livery but receive several modifications: the flags of both the Netherlands and European Union are removed while the Dutch Crown logo is replaced with the KLM Asia wordmark.{{Cite web |title=Aircraft Operators - KLM Asia |url=https://www.hef.ru.nl/~pfk/aircraft/operator-KLMAsia.php#:~:text=The%20livery%20of%20KLM%20Asia%20does%20not%20feature%20Dutch%20national%20symbols,%20such%20as%20the%20flag%20of%20the%20Netherlands,%20nor%20KLM's%20stylised%20Dutch%20Crown%20logo.%20Instead,%20it%20features%20a%20special%20KLM%20Asia%20logo |access-date=2024-08-24 |website=www.hef.ru.nl}}{{Cite web |date=2013-07-19 |title=The KLM Source - KLM Royal Dutch Airlines History |url=http://www.theklmsource.com/history.html |access-date=2024-08-24 |archive-date=19 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130719044400/http://www.theklmsource.com/history.html |url-status=usurped }}

The fleet of aircraft operated by the subsidiary consists of seven Boeing 777-200ER and two Boeing 777-300ER aircraft as of March 2020. As of 2012, KLM used the "KLM Asia" brand to fly to Taipei and the aircraft had to fly over China. Previously KLM used Boeing 747s for its services to Taiwan.{{cite web | url=http://worldairlinenews.com/2012/02/22/klm-to-move-seven-boeing-777-200-ers-to-klm-asia/ | title=KLM to repaint seven Boeing 777-200ERs in KLM Asia livery | work=World Airline News | date=22 February 2012 | access-date=16 October 2015 | archive-date=1 September 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150901180012/http://worldairlinenews.com/2012/02/22/klm-to-move-seven-boeing-777-200-ers-to-klm-asia/ | url-status=dead }} In 2012, it started operating the revised Amsterdam-Taipei-Manila route with Boeing 777-200ER aircraft.

KLM Asia aircraft are also occasionally used in services to other destinations, including China, in the wider KLM network.{{Cite web |date=4 September 2024 |title=Deep Dive: The Story Behind KLM Asia |url=https://www.airwaysmag.com/legacy-posts/history-klm-asia |access-date=19 November 2024 |website=Airways Magazine}}

Dirk Roosenburg designed the KLM logo at its establishment in 1919; he intertwined the letters K, L, and M, and gave them wings and a crown. The crown was depicted to denote KLM's royal status, which was granted at KLM's establishment.{{cite web|title=KLM keeps predicate 'Royal'|url=https://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/about/news_press/travel_news/KLM_keeps_predicate_Royal.htm|publisher=KLM|access-date=2 February 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130620024812/https://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/about/news_press/travel_news/KLM_keeps_predicate_Royal.htm|archive-date=20 June 2013}} The logo became known as the "vinklogo" in reference to the common chaffinch.{{cite book|last=van Hoogstraten|first=Dorine|title=Dirk Roosenburg, architect 1887–1962|year=2005|trans-title=Dirk Roosenburg, architect 1887–1962|publisher=010 Publishers |location=Rotterdam |isbn=9064505322 |url=https://books.google.com/books?isbn=9064505322|access-date=2 February 2013|page=137|language=nl|trans-chapter=Buildings for aviation|chapter=Gebouwen voor de luchtvaart}} The KLM logo was largely redesigned in 1961 by F.H.K. Henrion. The crown, redesigned using a line, four blue circles and a cross, was retained. In 1991, the logo was further revised by Chris Ludlow of Henrion, Ludlow & Schmidt.{{cite web |title=KLM Logo |url=http://www.famouslogos.net/klm-logo |work=FamousLogos.net |access-date=2 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130622213123/http://www.famouslogos.net/klm-logo |archive-date=22 June 2013 |url-status=dead }} In addition to its main logo, KLM displays its alliance status in its branding, including "Worldwide Reliability" with Northwest Airlines (1993–2002) and the SkyTeam alliance (2004–present).{{cite web|title=KLM Royal Dutch Airlines|url=http://www.evolutionofbrands.com/nl/klm-royal-dutch-airlines/|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130216012729/http://www.evolutionofbrands.com/nl/klm-royal-dutch-airlines/|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 February 2013|work=Evolution of Brands|access-date=2 February 2013}}

{{clear}}

File:Evolution klm.jpg

File:KLM Wing.jpg

File:Douglas DC-6 PH-TPT KLM RWY 18.07.53 edited-2.jpg

File:Lockheed L188C PH-LLK KLM MAN 23.12.63 edited-2.jpg

KLM has utilized several major liveries since its founding, with numerous variations on each. Initially, many aircraft featured a bare-metal fuselage with a stripe above the windows bearing the phrase "The Flying Dutchman". The rudder was divided into three segments and painted to match the Dutch flag. Later aircraft types sometimes bore a white upper fuselage, and additional detail striping and titling. In the mid-1950s, the livery was changed to feature a split cheatline in two shades of blue on a white upper fuselage and angled blue stripes on the vertical stabilizer. The tail stripes were later enlarged and made horizontal, and the then-new crown logo was placed in a white circle. The final major variation of this livery saw the vertical stabilizer painted completely white with the crown logo in the center. All versions of this livery had small "KLM Royal Dutch Airlines" titles, first in red, and later in blue.{{Cite web |title=» The new KLM livery: an in-depth look at all the changes |url=https://www.norebbo.com/new-klm-livery/ |access-date=2023-09-06 |language=en-US |archive-date=6 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906164603/https://www.norebbo.com/new-klm-livery/ |url-status=live }}

Since 1971, the KLM livery has primarily featured a bright blue fuselage, with variations on the striping and details. Originally a wide, dark blue cheatline covered the windows and was separated from the light grey lower fuselage by a thin white stripe. The KLM logo was placed centrally on the white tail and the front of the fuselage. In December 2002, KLM introduced an updated livery in which the white strip was removed and the dark-blue cheatline was significantly narrowed. The bright blue colour was retained and now covers most of the fuselage. The KLM logo was placed more centrally on the fuselage while its position on the tail and the tail design remained the same.{{cite press release|title=New Livery For KLM Fleet |url=http://www.presslink.nl/klm/|publisher=KLM|date=20 December 2002|access-date=9 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021222090350/http://www.presslink.nl/klm/ |archive-date=22 December 2002}} In 2014, KLM modified its livery with a swooping cheatline that wraps around the entire forward fuselage. The livery was first introduced on Embraer 190s.{{cite press release |author= |title=KLM Welcomes its Latest Embraer 190 and Modified Livery |url=http://news.klm.com/klm-welcomes-its-latest-embraer-190-and-modified-livery |location=Amstelveen |date=29 April 2014 |access-date=2 July 2015 |archive-date=2 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150702221139/http://news.klm.com/klm-welcomes-its-latest-embraer-190-and-modified-livery |url-status=live }}

In April 2010, KLM introduced new uniforms for its female cabin attendants, ground attendants and pilots at KLM and KLM Cityhopper. The new uniform was designed by Dutch couturier Mart Visser. It retains the KLM blue colour that was introduced in 1971 and adds a touch of orange—the national colour of the Netherlands.{{cite press release|title=KLM introduces new ladies uniform|url=http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-introduceert-nieuw-damesuniform-en/|publisher=KLM|date=14 April 2010|access-date=9 February 2013|archive-date=20 June 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130620030208/http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-introduceert-nieuw-damesuniform-en/|url-status=live}}

File:Berlin_Brandenburg_Airport_KLM_Royal_Dutch_Airlines_Airbus_A321-252NX_PH-AXB_(DSC06694).jpg with the 2024 livery]]

In August 2024, KLM introduced a brand new livery on its first Airbus A321neo with the blue section now fully covers the nose dome and the SkyTeam logo together with the Air France-KLM Group logo moved from the nose section to the tail section.{{Cite web |title=KLM reveals new A321neo livery |url=https://news.klm.com/klm-reveals-new-a321neo-livery/ |access-date=2025-03-27 |website=KLM reveals new A321neo livery |language=en}} The logo and the font has also been changed slightly for a more modernized feel.

KLM has used several slogans for marketing throughout its operational history:

• "The businessman travels, sends, and receives by KLM" (translated from Dutch){{cite news|last=Heiden|first=H.G.|title=Een goed verwarmde kajuit in de winter|url=http://www.digibron.nl/search/detail/012df2bb54bad327a2cfab28/|access-date=16 February 2013|newspaper=Reformatorisch Dagblad|date=7 October 1994|page=17|language=nl|trans-title=A well-heated cabin in winter|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923223351/http://www.digibron.nl/search/detail/012df2bb54bad327a2cfab28/|archive-date=23 September 2015|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|last=van Weezepoel|first=Paul|title=Dutch Aviation History 1919|url=http://www.dutch-aviation.nl/index3/1919-1939/index3-1919.html|work=Dutch Aviation|access-date=16 February 2013|archive-date=21 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130521214909/http://www.dutch-aviation.nl/index3/1919-1939/index3-1919.html|url-status=live}} (1920s)
• "The Flying Dutchman"{{cite web|last=van Weezepoel|first=Paul|title=Dutch Aviation History 1926|url=http://www.dutch-aviation.nl/index3/1919-1939/index3-1926.html|work=Dutch Aviation|access-date=16 February 2013|archive-date=21 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130521215348/http://www.dutch-aviation.nl/index3/1919-1939/index3-1926.html|url-status=live}}
• "Bridging the World" (1994)
• "The Reliable Airline"{{cite web|title=Airline Slogans for airlines G – N|url=http://www.thetravelinsider.info/airlines/airlineslogansgn.htm|work=The Travel Insider|access-date=16 February 2013|archive-date=18 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130318190328/http://www.thetravelinsider.info/airlines/airlineslogansgn.htm|url-status=dead}}
• "Journeys of Inspiration"{{cite web|title=90th anniversary|url=http://holland-herald.com/2009/10/90th-anniversary/|work=Holland Herald|publisher=KLM|access-date=16 February 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110504005642/http://holland-herald.com/2009/10/90th-anniversary/|archive-date=4 May 2011}} (2009–present)

KLM has an extensive presence on social media platforms and also runs a blog.{{cite web |title=Where to find KLM on social media sites |url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/plan_and_book/klm_on_social_media/where_to_find_us/index.htm |publisher=KLM |access-date=31 March 2013 |archive-date=27 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130527135234/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/plan_and_book/klm_on_social_media/where_to_find_us/index.htm |url-status=dead }} Customers can make inquiries through these channels. The airline also uses these networks to inform customers of KLM news, marketing campaigns and promotions.{{Cite news|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/marketshare/2012/02/27/klm-a-company-that-gets-social-media/#3f80097c1027|title=KLM: A Company That 'Gets' Social Media|last=Olenski|first=Steve|work=Forbes|access-date=23 December 2017|language=en|archive-date=23 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171223103042/https://www.forbes.com/sites/marketshare/2012/02/27/klm-a-company-that-gets-social-media/#3f80097c1027|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.fodors.com/news/airlines/klm-royal-dutch-airlines-proves-a-winning-social-media-strategy-is-all-about-customer-service|title=KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Proves a Winning Social Media Strategy Is All About Customer Service|date=21 August 2017|work=Fodors Travel Guide|access-date=23 December 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=23 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171223160538/https://www.fodors.com/news/airlines/klm-royal-dutch-airlines-proves-a-winning-social-media-strategy-is-all-about-customer-service|url-status=live}}

The airline's use of social media platforms to reach customers peaked when the Icelandic volcano Eyjafjallajökull erupted in April 2010, causing widespread disruption to air traffic. Customers used the social networks to contact the airline, which used them to provide information about the situation.{{cite web |last=van Drimmelen |first=Jochem |title=KLM's social media strategy – Part 1 |url=http://blog.klm.com/klm%E2%80%99s-social-media-strategy-part-1/4670/ |publisher=KLM Blog |access-date=31 March 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120728021256/http://blog.klm.com/klm%E2%80%99s-social-media-strategy-part-1/4670/ |archive-date=28 July 2012 }} Following the increased use of social media, KLM created a centralized, public social media website named the Social Media Hub in October 2010.{{cite web |last=van Drimmelen |first=Jochem |title=KLM's social media strategy – Part 2 |url=http://blog.klm.com/klm%E2%80%99s-social-media-strategy-part-2/4700/ |publisher=KLM Blog |access-date=31 March 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130329234633/http://blog.klm.com/klm%E2%80%99s-social-media-strategy-part-2/4700/ |archive-date=29 March 2013 }}

KLM has developed several services based on these social platforms, including:

• Meet & Seat; this service allows passengers to find information about people who will be on the same KLM flight by connecting their Facebook or LinkedIn profiles to the flight. Meet & Seat facilitates contact with fellow travellers who have the same background or interests.{{cite web |title=KLM Meet & Seat |url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/Your_seat_on_board/meet_and_seat.htm |publisher=KLM |access-date=31 March 2013 |archive-date=3 April 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130403115450/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/your_seat_on_board/meet_and_seat.htm |url-status=dead }} By launching Meet & Seat, KLM became the first airline to integrate social networking into its regular flight process.{{cite press release |title=With Meet & Seat, KLM integrates social media with air travel |url=http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-lanceert-applicatie-meet-e-seat-en/ |publisher=KLM |date=3 February 2012 |access-date=31 March 2013 |archive-date=28 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130528184732/http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-lanceert-applicatie-meet-e-seat-en/ |url-status=live }}
• Trip Planner; this platform uses Facebook to organize a trip with Facebook friends.{{cite press release |title=KLM Launches Trip Planner – Plan a trip with friends via Facebook |url=http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-lanceert-trip-planner-een-reis-met-vrienden-plannen-via-facebook-en/ |publisher=KLM |date=31 May 2012 |access-date=31 March 2013 |archive-date=20 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130620022527/http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-lanceert-trip-planner-een-reis-met-vrienden-plannen-via-facebook-en/ |url-status=live }}
• Twitterbots; KLM operates several Twitterbots, including one to request the current status of a flight and one to request the lowest KLM fares to a destination on a specified date or month.{{cite web |last=van Drimmelen |first=Jochem |title=KLM's social media strategy – Part 4 |url=http://blog.klm.com/klm’s-social-media-strategy-part-4/4722/ |publisher=KLM Blog |access-date=31 March 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130402104410/http://blog.klm.com/klm%E2%80%99s-social-media-strategy-part-4/4722/ |archive-date=2 April 2013 }}

In June 2013, KLM launched its own 3D strategy game "Aviation Empire" for iOS and Android platforms. The game allows users to experience airline management. Players manage KLM from its establishment until the present; they can invest in a fleet, build a network with international destinations and develop airports. The game combines the digital world with the real world by enabling the unlocking of airports by GPS check-ins.{{cite press release |title=KLM Launches 3D Strategy Game 'Aviation Empire' |url=http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-lanceert-3d-strategy-game-aviation-empire-en/ |publisher=KLM |date=27 June 2013 |access-date=10 July 2013 |archive-date=1 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130701171800/http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-lanceert-3d-strategy-game-aviation-empire-en/ |url-status=live }}

KLM started KLM AirCares, a program that aids underprivileged children in developing countries to which KLM flies, in 1999.{{cite web |url=http://corporate.klm.com/en/topics/klm-aircares |title="KLM AirCares" KLM Website |publisher=Corporate.klm.com |access-date=29 November 2012 |archive-date=6 December 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101206210307/http://corporate.klm.com/en/topics/klm-aircares |url-status=live }} The airline collects money and airmiles from passengers. In 2012, new applications for support from the program were suspended because it needed an overhaul.{{cite web|url=http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/topics/klm-aircares/index.html|title=KLM AirCares|access-date=1 July 2014|archive-date=17 June 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140617131042/http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/topics/klm-aircares/index.html|url-status=live}}

{{Main|List of KLM destinations}}

KLM and its partners serve 163 destinations in 70 countries on five continents from their hub at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.{{cite web|url=http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/about-klm/facts-and-figures/index.html|title=Facts & Figures|date=18 October 2012|publisher=KLM Corporate|access-date=17 January 2013|archive-date=18 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110618031218/http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/about-klm/facts-and-figures/index.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web |title=SkyTeam Fact Sheet |url=http://static.skyteam.com/Global/Press/Facts%20and%20figures/2012%20Nov%20Xiamen/2012%20Fact%20Sheet%20SkyTeam%202012%20November.pdf |work=SkyTeam |page=5 |access-date=1 March 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130122125216/http://static.skyteam.com/Global/Press/Facts%20and%20figures/2012%20Nov%20Xiamen/2012%20Fact%20Sheet%20SkyTeam%202012%20November.pdf |archive-date=22 January 2013 }} Codeshare agreements bring the total amount of destinations available via KLM to 826.{{cite web|title=Reisgids|url=https://www.klm.com/destinations/nl/nl/search|work=KLM|access-date=20 February 2019|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221111955/https://www.klm.com/destinations/nl/nl/search|url-status=live}}

In November 2024, KLM announced additional three new routes from Amsterdam; San Diego, Georgetown and Hyderabad which will commence in May, June and September respectively. The route to San Diego and Hyderabad will be direct flights connecting the two cities, while the flights to Georgetown will have a brief stopover in Sint Maarten.{{Cite web |title=KLM expands intercontinental network with three new destinations |url=https://news.klm.com/klm-expands-intercontinental-network-with-three-new-destinations/# |access-date=2024-12-06 |website=KLM expands intercontinental network with three new destinations |language=en}}

KLM has codeshare agreements with the following airlines:{{cite web|title=Flying with one of KLM's partner airlines|url=https://www.klm.us/information/ticket-services/partner-airlines#flying-with-partners|website=KLM|publisher=Air France-KLM|location=Amsterdam|access-date=26 July 2022|archive-date=17 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220817000015/https://www.klm.us/information/ticket-services/partner-airlines#flying-with-partners|url-status=live}}

{{div col|colwidth=17em}}

• Aerolíneas Argentinas
• Aeroméxico
• Air Astana
• Air Europa
• Air France{{Cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240105-klafcodeshare|title=KLM Adds Air France Reunion Codeshare From Jan 2024|website=AeroRoutes|access-date=8 January 2024|archive-date=6 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240106153013/https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240105-klafcodeshare|url-status=live}}
• Air Serbia
• airBaltic{{cite news |last1=Liu |first1=Jim |title=airBaltic Expands KLM Codeshare Network in NS25 |url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/250409-btklcodeshare |access-date=10 April 2025 |work=AeroRoutes |date=9 April 2025 |language=en-CA}}
• Airlink{{cite web|title=KLM Begins Airlink Codeshare Service From Dec 2024|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/241210-kl4zcodeshare}}
• Belavia
• Bulgaria Air
• China Airlines{{cite web|title=KLM Expands China Airlines Codeshare Service From mid-Sep 2024|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240925-klcicodeshare}}
• China Eastern Airlines
• China Southern Airlines
• Copa Airlines
• Croatia Airlines
• Delta Air Lines{{Cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240610-kldlcodeshare|title=KLM Adds Delta Colombia Codeshare From June 2024|website=AeroRoutes}}
• El Al{{cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240722-lyklcodeshare|title=El Al/KLM begins codeshare from mid-July 2024|website=aeroroutes.com|date=22 July 2024}}
• Eurostar (railway) {{Cite web |title=AirRail: Amsterdam Schiphol |url=https://www.eurostar.com/be-en/deals/airrail |access-date=2024-09-28 |website=Eurostar |language=en}}
• Flair Airlines{{cite web|url=https://www.ifly.com/airlines/flair-airlines/partner-alliances |title=Flair Airlines Partnerships & Alliances |access-date=March 24, 2025}}
• Garuda Indonesia{{Cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240124-klgacodeshare|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125123121/https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240124-klgacodeshare|url-status=dead|title=KLM Resumes Garuda Indonesia Jakarta – Amsterdam Codeshare in 1Q24|archivedate=25 January 2024|website=AeroRoutes}}
• Georgian Airways
• Gol Transportes Aéreos{{cite web | last=Liu | first=Jim | title=KLM / GOL NW24 Codeshare Network Expansion | website=AeroRoutes | date=2024-09-17 | url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240917-klg3codeshare }}
• Gulf Air{{Cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/231128-klgfcodeshare|title=KLM Expands Gulf Air Codeshare From mid-Nov 2023|website=AeroRoutes|access-date=29 November 2023|archive-date=3 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231203183549/https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/231128-klgfcodeshare|url-status=live}}
• IndiGo{{cite web |author1=Hannah Brandler |title=Air France-KLM signs codeshare agreement with Indigo Airlines |url=https://www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2021/12/26/air-france-klm-signs-codeshare-agreement-with-indigo-airlines/ |website=Business Traveller |date=26 December 2021 |access-date=28 December 2021 |archive-date=26 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220926054023/https://www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2021/12/26/air-france-klm-signs-codeshare-agreement-with-indigo-airlines/ |url-status=live }}
• ITA Airways{{cite web|date=2021-12-03|title=ITA Airways, codeshare con KLM|url=https://www.advtraining.it/news/77170-ita-airways-codeshare-con-klm|language=Italian|trans-title=ITA Airways, codeshare with KLM|website=advtraining.it|access-date=4 December 2021|archive-date=1 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221101225630/http://www.advtraining.it/news/77170-ita-airways-codeshare-con-klm|url-status=live}}
• Kenya Airways
• KLM Cityhopper {{small|(subsidiary)}}
• KM Malta Airlines{{Cite web|title=KM Malta Airlines announces KLM codeshare as it prepares to take off|url=https://timesofmalta.com/article/km-malta-airlines-announces-klm-codeshare-prepares-take-off.1090035|access-date=2024-03-28|website=Times of Malta|language=en|archive-date=19 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240419105807/https://timesofmalta.com/article/km-malta-airlines-announces-klm-codeshare-prepares-take-off.1090035|url-status=live}}
• Korean Air
• Loganair{{cite web | url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230626-kllmcodeshare | title=KLM Adds Loganair London Heathrow Codeshare from June 2023 | access-date=26 June 2023 | archive-date=26 June 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230626150542/https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230626-kllmcodeshare | url-status=live }}
• Malaysia Airlines
• Middle East Airlines
• Pegasus Airlines{{cite web |author1=Ivan Nadalet |title=KLM and Turkish LCC, Pegasus Airlines, sign codeshare, interline deal |url=https://www.ch-aviation.com/news/19107-klm-and-turkish-lcc-pegasus-airlines-sign-codeshare-interline-deal |website=Ch-aviation.com |access-date=6 May 2024 |language=English |date=24 May 2013 }}
• Saudia
• Scandinavian Airlines{{Cite web|title=KLM/SAS BEGINS CODESHARE SERVICE FROM SEP 2024|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240715-klskcodeshare|date=15 July 2024|website=aeroroutes.com}}
• Sichuan Airlines
• TAROM
• Transavia{{Cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230816-klhvcodeshare|title=KLM Resumes Transavia Amman Codeshare in NW23|website=AeroRoutes|access-date=16 August 2023|archive-date=16 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230816072317/https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230816-klhvcodeshare|url-status=live}}
• Vietnam Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic{{cite news|url=https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Airline-News/Virgin-America-starts-codesharing-with-Air-France-KLM|title=Virgin Atlantic starts codesharing with Air France and KLM|date=March 4, 2019|last=Silk|first=Robert|magazine=Travel Weekly|publisher=Northstar Travel Group|location=Secaucus|access-date=18 August 2022|archive-date=28 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230328163311/https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Airline-News/Virgin-America-starts-codesharing-with-Air-France-KLM|url-status=live}}
• WestJet
• Widerøe
• Winair{{Cite web |title=KLM and Winair sign codeshare agreement |url=http://klmf.ly/2uCxw2W |access-date=2022-07-24 |website=KLM and Winair sign codeshare agreement |language=en}}
• XiamenAir

{{div col end}}

{{Main|KLM fleet}}

KLM's first of eight Boeing 787-10 aircraft was delivered on 28 June 2019; it featured centennial markings.{{Cite web |date=2019-09-11 |title=KLM A Dutch of Class |url=https://www.key.aero/article/klm-dutch-class |access-date=2023-11-25 |website=Key Publishing Ltd |archive-date=25 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231125121225/https://www.key.aero/article/klm-dutch-class |url-status=live }}

On 19 June 2013, KLM ordered seven Airbus A350-900s. In June 2019, Air France-KLM announced that KLM will not take up any of the group's ordered A350s, because of fleet rationalization purposes.

CEO Ben Smith announced at Air France's Investor Day (5 November 2019) in Paris that "in the near future", KLM will only use the 777 and 787 as their long-haul fleet, retiring their thirteen A330's.{{cite web |url=https://luchtvaartnieuws.nl/nieuws/categorie/2/airlines/klm-neemt-definitief-afscheid-van-airbus-a330-vloot |last=Klaas |first=Jan van Woerkom |date=November 5, 2019 |title=KLM Neemt Definitief Afscheid Van Airbus A330-VL00T |work=Luchtvaart Nieuws.nl |access-date=June 17, 2020 |language=nl |archive-date=22 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230422190738/https://luchtvaartnieuws.nl/nieuws/categorie/2/airlines/klm-neemt-definitief-afscheid-van-airbus-a330-vloot |url-status=live }}

In December 2021, Air France-KLM ordered 100 Airbus A320neo family aircraft to replace KLM and Transavia's Boeing 737 Next Generation.

On 25 September 2023, Air France-KLM announced that they had signed an agreement with Airbus for a total of 50 Airbus A350-900 and A350-1000 aircraft, with an option for 40 more. The type is set to serve intercontinental flights from 2026, replacing its fleet of Boeing 777-200ERs, Airbus A330-200s and Airbus A330-300s.{{Cite web |title=KLM to invest in cleaner, quieter and more fuel-efficient long-haul aircraft with an order of new Airbus A350s |url=https://klmf.ly/3PQv4SR |access-date=2023-10-06 |website=KLM to invest in cleaner, quieter and more fuel-efficient long-haul aircraft with an order of new Airbus A350s |language=en}}

File:KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner PH-BKA (100 Years livery).jpg

File:KLM PH-BVA in TPE AUG 2017.jpg

KLM has several aircraft painted in special liveries; they include:

• PH-BVA, a Boeing 777-300ER, features an orange forward fuselage that fades into the standard blue to commemorate the Netherlands national team's participation in the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.{{cite web |url=https://news.klm.com/orangepride-klms-unique-orange-aircraft-to-promote-the-netherlands |date=June 14, 2016 |title=Orangepride: KLM's unique orange aircraft to promote the Netherlands |work=KLM |access-date=June 17, 2020 |archive-date=16 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200616172748/https://news.klm.com/orangepride-klms-unique-orange-aircraft-to-promote-the-netherlands/ |url-status=live }} On 20 November 2023 KLM launched a new version of this livery in which the fade was replaced by a Dutch flag.
• PH-KZU, a Fokker F70, had been applied with a special livery featuring Anthony Fokker before its phase-out, the founder of Fokker, commemorating the airline's long-standing history with Fokker aircraft and the phase-out of the Fokker 70 aircraft in October 2017.{{cite web |last=Lammertse |first=Kim |date=2017-06-06 |title=A Fond Farewell to Fokker – KLM Blog |url=https://blog.klm.com/farewell-to-fokker/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729092544/https://blog.klm.com/farewell-to-fokker/ |archive-date=29 July 2017 |access-date=2023-11-25 |website=blog.klm.com}}
• Several aircraft bear the silver SkyTeam alliance livery, including PH-BVD (a 777-300ER), PH-BXO (a 737-900), and PH-EZX (a KLM Cityhopper ERJ-190).
• PH-BKA, a Boeing 787-10, features the standard KLM livery with a 100 wrapped around its lettering on the plane, this was to celebrate KLM's centennial as an established airline.

KLM has three cabin classes for international long-haul routes; World Business Class, Premium Comfort and Economy. Part of the Economy cabin has a higher seat pitch and is sold as Economy Comfort. Personal screens with audio-video on-demand, satellite telephone, SMS, and e-mail services are available in all cabins on all long-haul aircraft. European short-haul and medium-haul flights have Economy seats in the rear cabin, and Economy Comfort and Europe Business in the forward cabin.{{cite web|url=https://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/travel_classes/index.htm|title=Travel classes - KLM.com|website=www.klm.com|language=en|access-date=23 May 2019|archive-date=2 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402115222/https://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/travel_classes/index.htm|url-status=live}}

File:KLM World Business Class Seat.jpg]]

File:KLM 787-9 Economy class.jpg]]

World Business Class is KLM's long-haul business class product. Seats in the older World Business Class are {{convert|20|in|cm}} wide and have a {{convert|60|in|cm|adj=on}} pitch.{{cite web|title=KLM Fleet Information and Seatmaps|url=http://www.seatguru.com/airlines/KLM/fleetinfo.php|work=Seatguru|publisher=TripAdvisor|access-date=22 January 2013|archive-date=23 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130123210244/http://www.seatguru.com/airlines/KLM/fleetinfo.php|url-status=live}} Seats can be reclined into a 170-degree angled flat bed with a length of {{convert|75|in|cm}}. Seats are equipped with a {{convert|10.4|in|cm|adj=on}} personal entertainment system with audio and video on demand in the armrest, privacy canopy, massage function and laptop power ports.{{cite web|title=Travel classes – World Business Class|url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/travel_classes/index.htm#p1|publisher=KLM|access-date=21 January 2013|archive-date=25 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130125091310/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/travel_classes/index.htm#p1|url-status=live}} World Business Class seating is in a 2–2–2 abreast arrangement on all Airbus A330s.

In March 2013, KLM introduced a new World Business Class seat to the long-haul fleet. Dutch designer Hella Jongerius designed the new cabin. The diamond-type seat is manufactured by B/E Aerospace and is currently installed on all Airbus A330s and Boeing 777s. The seats were also refurbished on former KLM Boeing 747-400s between 2013 and 2014. The new seats are fully flat and offer {{convert|17|in|cm|adj = on}}-high definition personal entertainment systems. When fully flat, the bed is about {{convert|2|m|ft}} long. The cabin features a cradle-to-cradle carpet made from old uniforms woven in an intricate pattern, which is combined with new pillows and curtains with a similar design.{{cite press release |title=KLM Continues to Invest in Its Customers |url=http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-nieuw-cabine-full-flat-world-business-class-en/ |publisher=KLM |date=19 March 2013 |access-date=15 October 2015 |archive-date=24 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151224181837/http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-nieuw-cabine-full-flat-world-business-class-en |url-status=live }}

A completely new design of Business Class seats was introduced with the launch of KLM's Boeing 787; this aircraft's business class seats are based on the Zodiac Cirrus platform used by Air France. The new seats lie fully flat, with a 1-2-1 layout so every passenger has direct aisle access, a large side-storage area and {{Convert|16|inch|cm|adj=on}} HD video screen.{{cite web|title=New KLM 787 Business Class seats|url=http://lux-traveller.com/2015/klm-new-business-class.htm|publisher=Lux-traveller.com|access-date=29 July 2015|archive-date=31 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160131194805/http://lux-traveller.com/2015/klm-new-business-class.htm|url-status=live}}{{cite web | url=http://thedesignair.net/2015/07/24/klm-showcase-new-787-9-world-business-class-cabin/ | title=KLM Showcase New 787-9 World Business Class Cabin | work=The Design Air | date=24 July 2015 | access-date=15 October 2015 | archive-date=16 October 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016094502/http://thedesignair.net/2015/07/24/klm-showcase-new-787-9-world-business-class-cabin/ | url-status=live }}

The tableware and cutlery for business class in-flight service was designed by Marcel Wanders.{{Cite web |last=Musson |first=Valerie |date=2017-11-10 |title=Flying With Marcel Wanders |url=https://blog.klm.com/flying-with-wanders/ |access-date=2023-03-02 |website=KLM Blog |language=en-US |archive-date=2 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302101822/https://blog.klm.com/flying-with-wanders/ |url-status=live }} Dutch fashion stylists Viktor & Rolf designed amenity kits for World Business Class passengers. A new design will be introduced each year and the color of the kits will change every six months. The kit contains socks, an eye mask, a toothbrush, toothpaste, earplugs and Viktor & Rolf lip balm.{{cite web | url=http://www.travelandleisure.com/slideshows/coolest-airline-amenity-kits/11 | title=Coolest Airline Amenity Kits | publisher=Time Inc. | work=Travel and Leisure | date=8 January 2015 | access-date=10 October 2015 | author=Lieberman, Melanie | page=11 | archive-date=28 October 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151028230324/http://www.travelandleisure.com/slideshows/coolest-airline-amenity-kits/11 | url-status=live }}{{cite web | url=http://luxurylaunches.com/travel/the-7-best-first-class-amenity-kits-according-to-afar.php | title=The 7 best first class amenity kits according to Afar | work=Luxury Launches | date=22 July 2015 | access-date=10 October 2015 | author=Pillai, Shalu | archive-date=29 September 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150929050826/http://luxurylaunches.com/travel/the-7-best-first-class-amenity-kits-according-to-afar.php | url-status=live }}{{cite web | url=https://onemileatatime.com/review-klm-business-class-747-400-amsterdam-chicago/ | title=Review: KLM Business Class 747-400 Amsterdam To Chicago | publisher=Boarding Area | work=One Mile at a Time | access-date=10 October 2015 | author=Schlappig, Ben | date=21 September 2014 }}

In 2022, KLM announced they would retrofit Boeing 777 aircraft in their fleet (notably, the 777-300 and 777-200) with seats in a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone configuration while installing Premium Comfort seats. These new seats will feature a "door" for extra privacy.

Europe Business Class is KLM's and KLM Cityhopper's short-haul business-class. Europe Business Class seats are {{convert|17|in|cm|adj=on}} wide and have an average pitch of {{convert|33|in|cm}}. Middle seats in rows of three are blocked to increase passengers' personal space. Europe Business Class seats feature extra legroom and recline further than regular Economy Class seats. In-seat power is available on all Boeing 737 aircraft's.{{cite web|title=Travel classes – Europe Business Class|url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/travel_classes/index.htm#p2|publisher=KLM|access-date=22 January 2013|archive-date=25 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130125091310/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/travel_classes/index.htm#p2|url-status=live}} Europe Business Class has no personal entertainment. Seating is arranged 3–3 abreast with the middle seat blocked on the Boeing 737 aircraft, and a 2–2 abreast arrangement on the Embraer E-Jet family and Embraer E-Jet E2 aircraft.{{cite web |title=KLM's Boeing 737-700 specifications and seat map |url=https://www.klm.com/information/travel-class-extra-options/aircraft-types/boeing-737-700 |access-date=2023-11-27 |publisher=KLM |archive-date=5 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205091132/https://www.klm.com/information/travel-class-extra-options/aircraft-types/boeing-737-700 |url-status=live }}

In 2022, KLM announced they would retrofit their long-haul fleet to include Premium Comfort. Premium Comfort will be a new cabin in front of Economy Comfort, with between 21 and 28 new seats featuring a 13" touch screen, a movable leg- and footrest, 7.8 inches recline (20 cm) and up to 6.7 inches (17 cm) more pitch than Economy seats. Passengers in Premium Comfort can also enjoy improved food and beverage service, as well as SkyPriority benefits.

Economy Comfort is part of the economy class cabin offered on all KLM and KLM Cityhopper flights and provides passengers with more legroom and recline. Economy Comfort seats on long-haul flights have {{convert|4|in|cm}} more pitch than Economy Class, a {{convert|35-36|in|cm|adj=on}} pitch and recline up to {{convert|7|in|cm}}; double the recline of Economy.{{cite web|url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/images/Seat%20plans%20on%20intercontinental%20flights_en_28SEP2012_tcm542-292692.pdf|title=Economy Class seats on intercontinental KLM flights|publisher=KLM|access-date=22 January 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121117104311/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/images/Seat%20plans%20on%20intercontinental%20flights_en_28SEP2012_tcm542-292692.pdf|archive-date=17 November 2012}} Economy Comfort seats on short-haul flights have {{convert|3.5|in|cm}} more pitch, totaling {{convert|33.5-34.5|in|cm|adj=on}}, and can recline up to {{convert|5|in|cm}} (40%) further.{{cite web |title=KLM Check In Poicy |url=https://airlinespolicy.com/check-in-policy/klm-check-in/ |access-date=March 11, 2024 |publisher=KLM |archive-date=11 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240311055531/https://airlinespolicy.com/check-in-policy/klm-check-in/ |url-status=live }} Except for the increased pitch and recline, seating and service in Economy Comfort is the same as in Economy Class. Economy Comfort is located in the front of the Economy Class; passengers can exit the aircraft before Economy passengers.{{cite web |url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/travel_information/checkin_options/internet_checkin/ici_details/ici_seat_choice.htm#p3 |title=Seat in the Economy Comfort zone |publisher=KLM |access-date=22 January 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100105102646/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/travel_information/checkin_options/internet_checkin/ici_details/ici_seat_choice.htm#p3 |archive-date=5 January 2010 }}

Economy Comfort seats can be reserved by Economy Class passengers. The service is free for passengers with a full-fare ticket, for Flying Blue Platinum members and Delta Air Lines SkyMiles Platinum or Diamond members. Discounts apply for Flying Blue Silver or Gold members, SkyTeam Elite Plus members and Delta SkyMiles members.

The Economy Class seats on long-haul flights have a {{convert|31|to(-)|32|in|cm|adj = on}} pitch and are {{convert|17.5|in|cm}} wide. All seats are equipped with adjustable winged headrests, a {{convert|9|in|cm|adj=on}} PTV with AVOD, and a personal handset satellite telephone that can be used with a credit card. Economy Class seats in Airbus A330-300 aircraft are also equipped with in-seat power. The Economy Class seats on short-haul flights have a {{convert|30|to(-)|31|in|cm|adj = on}} pitch and are {{convert|17|in|cm}} wide. The Economy Class seats on short-haul flights do not feature any personal entertainment. The long-haul Economy Class seating is in a 3–4–3 abreast arrangement on the Boeing 747-400, Boeing 777-300ER aircraft and on Boeing 777-200ER aircraft, a 3-3-3 abreast arrangement on the Boeing 787-9 aircraft, and a 2–4–2 abreast arrangement on the Airbus A330 aircraft. The short-haul Economy Class seating is in a 3–3 abreast arrangement on the Boeing 737 aircraft and a 2–2 abreast arrangement on the Embraer 175 and 190 aircraft, and the seats on these aircraft are {{convert|17|in|cm}} wide.{{cite web |title=KLM's Embraer 175 specifications and seat map |url=https://www.klm.com/information/travel-class-extra-options/aircraft-types/embraer-175 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170801001938/https://www.klm.com/travel/gb_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/seating_plans/787.htm |archive-date=1 August 2017 |access-date=2023-11-27 |website=KLM}}

KLM's in-flight entertainment system is available in all classes on all widebody aircraft; it provides all passengers with Audio/Video on Demand (AVOD). The system includes interactive entertainment including movies, television programs, music, games, and language courses. About 80 movies including recent releases, classics and world cinema are available in several languages. The selection is changed every month.{{cite web |url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/entertainment/index.htm#p2 |title=Many choices and a personal screen |publisher=KLM |access-date=22 January 2013 |archive-date=22 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130122045108/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/entertainment/index.htm#p2 |url-status=live }} The in-flight entertainment system can be used to send SMS text messages and emails to the ground. Panasonic's 3000i system is installed on all Boeing 747-400, Boeing 777-200ER, and on most of the Airbus A330-200 aircraft.{{cite press release|title=Matsushita Avionics Systems Corporation's System 3000 IFE Selected by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines for B777-200ER Fleet|url=http://www.mascorp.com/pdf/new/Press_40_09.23.2002.pdf|publisher=Panasonic Avionics Corporation|date=23 September 2002|access-date=22 January 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101217064356/http://mascorp.com/pdf/new/Press_40_09.23.2002.pdf|archive-date=17 December 2010}} All Airbus A330-300 and Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, and some Airbus A330-200 aircraft are fitted with the Panasonic eX2 in-flight entertainment system.{{Cite news |last=Kirby |first=Mary |date=2008-09-17 |title=Air France to equip 10 777-300ERs with Panasonic IFE |work=FlightGlobal |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/air-france-to-equip-10-777-300ers-with-panasonic-ife/82833.article |url-status=live |access-date=2023-11-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101217061309/http://mascorp.com/pdf/PressRelease-AirFrance-eX2_091108.pdf |archive-date=17 December 2010}}

KLM provides a selection of international newspapers to its passengers on long-haul flights; on short-haul flights, they are offered only to Europe Business Class passengers. A selection of international magazines is available for World Business Class passengers on long-haul flights.{{cite web |url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/travel_classes/index.htm |title=Travel classes |publisher=KLM |access-date=22 January 2013 |archive-date=25 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130125091310/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/travel_classes/index.htm |url-status=live }} All passengers are provided with KLM's in-flight magazine, the Holland Herald.{{cite web |url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/entertainment/index.htm#p4 |title=The Holland Herald, our award winning magazine |work=KLM |access-date=22 January 2013 |archive-date=22 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130122045108/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/entertainment/index.htm#p4 |url-status=live }} On board flights to China, South Korea and Japan, the airline offers in-flight magazines EuroSky (China and Japan), in either Chinese or Japanese, and Wings of Europe (South Korea) in Korean.{{cite web |title=Asia on board: dining and services |url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/dining_on_board/asia.htm |publisher=KLM |access-date=25 January 2013 |archive-date=26 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130126135120/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/dining_on_board/asia.htm |url-status=live }} On 29 May 2013, KLM and Air France launched a pilot scheme to test in-flight WiFi internet access. Each airline equipped one Boeing 777-300ER in its fleet with WiFi, which passengers can use with their WiFi-enabled devices. Wireless service was available after the aircraft reached {{convert|20000|ft|m|sigfig=2}} in altitude.{{cite press release|title=Air France and KLM launch inflight Wi-Fi|url=http://nieuws.klm.com/wifi-en/|work=KLM|date=29 May 2013|access-date=12 July 2013|archive-date=13 July 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130713053006/http://nieuws.klm.com/wifi-en/|url-status=live}}

World Business Class passengers are served a three-course meal. Each year KLM partners with a leading Dutch chef to develop the dishes that are served on board. Passengers in Europe Business Class are served either a cold meal, a hot main course, or a three-course meal depending on the duration of the flight.{{cite web|title=Dining in Business Class|url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/dining_on_board/dining_in_business_class.htm|publisher=KLM|access-date=25 January 2013|archive-date=27 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130127034546/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/dining_on_board/dining_in_business_class.htm|url-status=live}} All chicken served in World and Europe Business Class meets the standards of the Dutch Beter Leven Keurmerk (Better Life Quality Mark).{{cite press release|title=KLM Takes New Steps Towards More Sustainable Catering|url=http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-zet-verdere-stappen-in-duurzame-catering-en/|publisher=KLM|date=1 October 2012|access-date=25 January 2013|archive-date=5 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130105015800/http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-zet-verdere-stappen-in-duurzame-catering-en/|url-status=live}} KLM partnered with Dutch designer Marcel Wanders to design the tableware of World and European Business Class.{{cite press release|title=KLM's World Business Class services van ontwerper Marcel Wanders|url=http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-a-s-world-business-class-servies-van-ontwerper-marcel-wanders/|publisher=KLM|date=9 November 2010|language=nl|trans-title=KLM's World Business Class tableware from designer Marcel Wanders|access-date=25 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130402232012/http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-a-s-world-business-class-servies-van-ontwerper-marcel-wanders/|archive-date=2 April 2013|url-status=dead}}

Economy Class passengers on long-haul flights are served a hot meal and a snack, and a second hot meal or breakfast, depending on the duration of the flight. On short-haul flights, passengers are served sandwiches or a choice of sweet or savoury snack, depending on the duration and time of the day. If the flight is at least two hours long, "stroopwafel" cookies are served before the descent.{{Cite web |last=Hamilton |first=Sophia |date=2022-10-29 |title=How to Upgrade KLM Flight Seat? |url=https://airlinespolicy.com/blog/upgrade-klm-flight-seat/ |access-date=2023-11-27 |archive-date=9 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231209211709/https://airlinespolicy.com/blog/upgrade-klm-flight-seat/ |url-status=live }} Most alcoholic beverages are free-of-charge for all passengers. After a successful trial period, KLM introduced à la carte meals in Economy Class on 14 September 2011; Dutch, Japanese, Italian, cold delicacies, and Indonesian meals are offered.{{cite press release|title=KLM launches 'à la carte catering' pilot|url=http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-start-proef-a-la-carte-catering-a-en/|publisher=KLM|date=25 May 2010|access-date=25 January 2013|archive-date=20 June 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130620031949/http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-start-proef-a-la-carte-catering-a-en/|url-status=live}}{{cite press release|title=KLM Introduces "À La Carte Meals"|url=http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-introduceert-la-carte-maaltijden-en/|publisher=KLM|date=28 July 2011|access-date=25 January 2013|archive-date=12 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130112070456/http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-introduceert-la-carte-maaltijden-en/|url-status=live}}

Special meals, including children's, vegetarian, medical, and religious meals, can be requested in each class up to 24 or 36 hours before departure.{{cite web |title=Special meals on board |url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/dining_on_board/special_meals.htm |publisher=KLM |access-date=25 January 2013 |archive-date=27 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130127042626/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/dining_on_board/special_meals.htm |url-status=live }} On flights to India, China, South Korea, and Japan, KLM offers authentic Asian meals in all classes. Meals served on KLM flights departing from Amsterdam are provided by KLM Catering Services.{{cite web|title=Customers|url=http://kcs.nl/kcs/kcs_productie/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=56&Itemid=65&lang=en|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130222172944/http://kcs.nl/kcs/kcs_productie/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=56&Itemid=65&lang=en|url-status=dead|archive-date=22 February 2013|publisher=KLM Catering Services|access-date=25 January 2013}}

In September 2016, KLM launched the world's first in-flight draft beer under the partnership with Heineken. The new service made its premiere aboard a flight to Curaçao in the airline's World Business Class cabin.{{cite magazine |url=http://www.adweek.com/news/technology/cond-nast-has-started-using-ibms-watson-find-influencers-brands-173243 |title=Heineken, KLM Finally Figured Out How to Serve Freshly Tapped Draught Beer on an Airplane |author=David Gianatasio |magazine=Adweek |date=6 September 2016 |access-date=8 September 2016 |archive-date=8 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160908113129/http://www.adweek.com/news/technology/cond-nast-has-started-using-ibms-watson-find-influencers-brands-173243 |url-status=live }}

{{see also|List of KLM Delft Blue houses}}

File:KLM DelftBlueHouses.PNG

Since the 1950s, KLM has presented its World Business Class passengers with a Delft blue miniature traditional Dutch house.Zegeling, Mark (2015). Little Kingdom by the Sea: a Celebration of Dutch Cultural Heritage – Secrets of the KLM Houses Revealed. Markmedia & Art. {{ISBN|9081905627}}. These miniatures are reproductions of real Dutch houses and are filled with Dutch genever.{{cite web |title=KLM Delft Blue houses |url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/travel_classes/miniatures.htm |work=KLM |access-date=25 July 2013 |archive-date=31 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130731105828/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/travel_classes/miniatures.htm |url-status=live }} Initially the houses were filled with Bols liqueur, which in 1986 was changed to Bols young genever.{{cite web|title=House of Bols|url=http://www.bols.com/2011/11/17/in-pellentesque/|work=Bols|access-date=25 July 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181215224444/https://bols.com/2011/11/17/in-pellentesque|archive-date=15 December 2018|url-status=dead}}

In 1952, KLM started to give the houses to its First Class passengers. With the elimination of First Class in 1993, the houses were handed out to all Business Class passengers.{{cite news|last=Michaels|first=Daniel|title=The Ultimate Dutch Status Symbol: House-Shaped Booze Bottles; Jet-Setters Hoard, but Avoid Drinking, KLM's Freebies; The $1,000 Cheese Building|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB121217604543933443|access-date=25 July 2013|newspaper=The Wall Street Journal|date=31 May 2008|archive-date=17 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150317002145/http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB121217604543933443|url-status=live}} The impetus for these houses was a rule aimed at curtailing a previously widespread practise of offering incentives to passengers by limiting the value of gifts given by airlines to US$0.75. KLM did not bill the Delft Blue houses as a gift but as a last drink free of charge, which was served in the house.{{cite web |title=Discover all our houses; About KLM Houses |url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/travel_classes/klmhouses.htm |work=KLM |access-date=25 July 2013 |archive-date=2 August 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130802034918/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/on_board/travel_classes/klmhouses.htm |url-status=live }}

Every year, a new house is presented on 7 October, the anniversary of KLM's founding in 1919. The number on the last-presented house thus represents the number of years KLM has been in operation. Special edition houses—the Royal Palace of Amsterdam and the 17th century Cheese Weighing House De Waag in Gouda—are offered to special guests, such as VIPs and honeymoon couples.

KLM offers various check-in methods to its passengers, who can check in for their flights at self-service check-in kiosks at the airport, via the Internet, or a mobile telephone or tablet. At destinations where these facilities are not available, check-in is by an airline representative at the counter.{{cite web|url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/checkin_options/all_about/index.htm|title=All about checking in|publisher=KLM|access-date=19 January 2013|archive-date=23 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130123103757/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/checkin_options/all_about/index.htm|url-status=live}} Electronic boarding passes can be received on a mobile device while boarding passes can be printed at airport kiosks.{{cite web |title=Receiving your boarding pass |url=https://www.klm.com/information/airport/boarding-pass |access-date=2023-11-27 |website=KLM |archive-date=9 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231209003919/https://www.klm.com/information/airport/boarding-pass |url-status=live }}

Since 4 July 2008 KLM, in cooperation with Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, has been offering self-service baggage drop-off to its passengers. The project started with a trial that included one drop-off point.{{Cite news |date=December 15, 2006 |title=Six new Self-Service Baggage Drop-Off units now in use at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol |work=news.schiphol.com |url=https://news.schiphol.com/six-new-self-service-baggage-drop-off-units-now-in-use-at-amsterdam-airport-schiphol/ |url-status=live |access-date=2023-11-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130526174839/http://www.schiphol.nl/SchipholGroup/NewsMedia/PressreleaseItem/AmsterdamAirportSchipholSixNewSelfServiceBaggageDropOffUnitsNowInUseAtAmsterdamAirportSchiphol1.htm |archive-date=26 May 2013}} The number of these points has gradually increased; {{as of|2012|2|8|lc=y}} there are 12 of them.{{Cite news |date=July 4, 2008 |title=Amsterdam airport trials self-service baggage check |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-dutch-airport-idUSL0430176320080704/ |access-date=2023-11-27 |archive-date=18 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231118021259/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-dutch-airport-idUSL0430176320080704/ |url-status=live }} KLM passengers can now drop off their bags themselves. Before they are allowed to do that they are being checked by a KLM employee.

In November 2012, KLM started a pilot scheme at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to test self-service boarding. Passengers boarded the aircraft without any interference of a gate agent by scanning their boarding passes, which opened a gate. KLM partner airline Air France ran the same pilot at its hub at Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport. The pilot ran until March 2013, which was followed by an evaluation.{{cite web|title=KLM test 'self service boarding' op Schiphol en Parijs CDG |url=http://www.luchtvaartnieuws.nl/nl-NL/Article.cms/Airlines/KLM_test_self_service_boarding_op_Schiphol_en_Parijs_CDG |work=Luchtvaartnieuws |date=30 November 2012 |publisher=Reismedia |language=nl |trans-title=KLM tests 'self service boarding' at Schiphol and Paris CDG |access-date=28 February 2013}}

KLM is the first airline to offer self-service transfer kiosks on its European and intercontinental routes for passengers connecting through Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.{{Cite news |date=2006-12-15 |title=KLM Royal Dutch Airlines to introduce self-service transfer kiosks |work=Business Travel News Europe |url=https://www.businesstravelnewseurope.com/Air-Travel/KLM-Royal-Dutch-Airlines-to-introduce-self-service-transfer-kiosks |access-date=2023-11-27 |archive-date=6 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230606172309/https://www.businesstravelnewseurope.com/Air-Travel/KLM-Royal-Dutch-Airlines-to-introduce-self-service-transfer-kiosks |url-status=live }} The kiosks enable connecting passengers to view flight details of connecting flights, to change seat assignments or upgrade to a more comfortable seat. When a passenger misses a connecting flight, details about alternative flights can be viewed on the kiosk and a new boarding pass can be printed. Passengers who are entitled to coupons for a beverage, meal, the use of a telephone, or a travel discount can have these printed at the kiosk.{{cite web|url=http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/at_the_airport/connections/index.htm#3|title=Transfer to another flight|publisher=KLM|access-date=19 January 2013|archive-date=25 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130125080526/http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/prepare_for_travel/at_the_airport/connections/index.htm#3|url-status=live}}

{{Redirect|Flying Blue|the racehorse|Flying Blue (horse)}}

Air France-KLM's frequent flyer program, Flying Blue, awards miles based on the distance travelled, ticket fare and class of service. As well as KLM and Air France, other airlines that adopted the Flying Blue programme include Transavia, Aircalin, and TAROM. Membership in the program is free. When flying, members earn Experience Points (XP) and Award Miles.{{cite web|url=https://www.flyingblue.com/en/programme?activeTab=introduction|title=The Flying Blue programme|publisher=Flying Blue|access-date=2 July 2023|archive-date=2 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230702113341/https://www.flyingblue.com/en/programme?activeTab=introduction|url-status=live}}

Experience Points are used to determine membership level and remain valid until the end of the qualification period, which lasts for 1 year from counting from the member's first flight. XP can be earned with KLM, Air France, Transavia, Aircalin, TAROM, and other SkyTeam partners. The Flying Blue programme is divided into four tiers: Explorer, Silver (SkyTeam Elite), Gold (SkyTeam Elite Plus) and Platinum (SkyTeam Elite Plus). The membership tier depends on the number of Experience Points earned and is recalculated each qualification period. Flying Blue privileges are additive by membership tier; higher tiers include all benefits listed for prior tiers. There is an additional fifth tier, Platinum for Life, which can be obtained after 10 consecutive years of Platinum membership. After the Platinum for Life status is obtained, re-qualification is not required.{{cite web|url=https://www.flyingblue.com/en/programme/more-info/status|title=Status & XP|publisher=Flying Blue|access-date=2 July 2023|archive-date=2 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230702113344/https://www.flyingblue.com/en/programme/more-info/status|url-status=live}}

Award Miles can be exchanged for rewards and expire after 24 months without flying. Award Miles can be earned on flights with SkyTeam member airlines as well as on other Flying Blue partners including Air Corsica, Air Mauritius, airBaltic, Aircalin, Bangkok Airways, Chalair Aviation, China Southern Airlines, Copa Airlines, Gol Transportes Aéreos, Japan Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Qantas, Transavia, Twin Jet, WestJet and Winair.{{cite web|url=https://www.flyingblue.com/en/earn-spend/partners/airline|title=Our airline partners|publisher=Flying Blue|access-date=2 July 2023|archive-date=2 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230702113342/https://www.flyingblue.com/en/earn-spend/partners/airline|url-status=live}} Award Miles are redeemable for free tickets, upgrades to a more expensive seating class, extra baggage allowance, wifi on board, and lounge access. They can also be donated to various charities,{{cite web|url=https://www.flyingblue.com/en/mileshub/donate|title=Donate Miles|publisher=Flying Blue|access-date=2 July 2023|archive-date=2 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230702113341/https://www.flyingblue.com/en/mileshub/donate|url-status=live}} or can be spent in the Flying Blue Store.{{cite web|url=https://www.flyingblue.com/en/programme/more-info/spend|title=Spend Miles|publisher=Flying Blue|access-date=2 July 2023|archive-date=2 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230702113343/https://www.flyingblue.com/en/programme/more-info/spend|url-status=live}}

In June 2022, Brim Financial announced it will launch an Air France-KLM co-branded credit card in Canada.{{Cite press release |title=Brim Financial Announces Partnership With Air France-KLM to Launch a Credit Card Program for Their Canadian Flying Blue Members |url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220623005205/en/Brim-Financial-Announces-Partnership-With-Air-France-KLM-to-Launch-a-Credit-Card-Program-for-Their-Canadian-Flying-Blue-Members |access-date=2022-11-01 |website=businesswire |date=23 June 2022 |archive-date=1 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221101181546/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220623005205/en/Brim-Financial-Announces-Partnership-With-Air-France-KLM-to-Launch-a-Credit-Card-Program-for-Their-Canadian-Flying-Blue-Members |url-status=live }}

In 2022, parent company Air France-KLM published a report of emission reduction targets for 2030 that were approved by the Science Based Targets initiative to be in line with the Paris Agreement. This includes offering options for consumers to contribute to sustainability programs offered by the airline. On their website, KLM detail many sustainability initiatives, including use of sustainable aviation fuels, reforestation programs, and reducing the weight of on board items to save fuel.

A report by the Breda University of Applied Sciences stated that the measures set by KLM in the 2022 report will not achieve the targets set out.{{cite book |last1=Peeters |first1=Paul |url=https://pure.buas.nl/ws/portalfiles/portal/32555525/Peeters_Buijtendijk_Eijgelaar_ExpertReport_v4_Final.pdf |title=KLM, science based targets, and the Paris Agreement – Expert Report |last2=Buijtendijk |first2=Harald |last3=Eijgelaar |first3=Eke |date=4 December 2023 |publisher=Breda University of Applied Science |language=en |access-date=21 December 2024}} In 2024, it was ruled that 15 of 19 claims submitted by KLM, including being on their way to "a more sustainable future" were based on vague and general statements, and overexaggerated the potential effects of the measures put in place. These were deemed misleading and therefore unlawful, and has been described by activists as Greenwashing.{{cite web |last=Duurzaam-ondernemen |date=20 March 2024 |title=Rechtbank: 'KLM doet aan greenwashing' |url=https://www.duurzaam-ondernemen.nl/rechtbank-klm-doet-aan-greenwashing/ |access-date=21 December 2024 |website=www.duurzaam-ondernemen.nl |publisher=Duurzaam Ondernemen |language=nl |location=}}

Meanwhile, Air France-KLM have been heavily involved in lobbying against European climate policy, and have actively opposed measures such as a kerosine tax and a flight cap at Schiphol Airport.{{cite news |author= |date=1 December 2023 |title=Air France-KLM's Climate Policy Engagement |url=https://influencemap.org/site/data/000/025/Air-France-KLM_Investor-Briefing_Dec_2023.pdf |access-date=12 December 2024 |work=Influencemap Report |publisher=Influencemap |location=}}

The main measure mentioned by KLM in its emissions reduction programme is the addition of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) to jet fuel. KLM offers customers the option to pay extra to contribute to the SAF programme, stating that the fuel will be added to the system at Schipol.{{Cite web |author = | url = https://www.klm.nl/information/sustainability/sustainable-aviation-fuel#add-saf-to-your-booking| title = SAF aan uw boeking toevoegen| access-date = 21 December 2024| publisher = KLM| language = NL}} The report by Breda University stated that KLM's target for SAF share by 2030 was not realistic given the scarcity of the fuel and the expected global availability.

KLM offers customers the opportunity to offset their flight emissions by contributing to reforestation programs. They initially used the slogan “Be a hero, fly CO₂ zero” to promote this. However in 2022, the Dutch agency RCC (Advertising Code Committee) indicated to KLM that this claim was not sufficiently substantiated and that it was wrong to state that it was possible to fly CO₂ neutral.{{Cite web|title="02021/00553"|access-date=2024-12-24|date=2022-04-08|publisher=Stichting Reclame Code|language=nl|url=https://www.reclamecode.nl/uitspraak/?uitspraakId=338478}}

{{main|Tenerife airport disaster}}

File:KLM Boeing 747-200 PH-BUF (7491686916).jpg named Rhine was only six years old.]]

The Tenerife disaster, which occurred on 27 March 1977, remains the accident with the highest number of airliner passenger fatalities, as well as the most recent fatal and notable incident involving a KLM aircraft. 583 people died when a KLM Boeing 747-200B attempted to take off without clearance and collided with a taxiing Pan Am Boeing 747-100 at Los Rodeos Airport on the Canary Island of Tenerife, Spain. No one on the KLM 747 survived (14 crew, 234 passengers were killed) while 61 of the 396 passengers and crew on the Pan Am aircraft survived. Pilot error from the KLM aircraft was the primary cause. Owing to a communication misunderstanding, the KLM captain thought he had clearance for takeoff.{{cite web |last=Hamilton |first=Sophia |date=2023-09-29 |title=Top 10 Reasons for Plane Crashes |url=https://airlinespolicy.com/blog/top-10-reasons-for-plane-crashes/ |access-date=2023-11-25 |archive-date=25 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231125120308/https://airlinespolicy.com/blog/top-10-reasons-for-plane-crashes/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web|last=Sebastien Freissinet|title=The Tenerife crash-March 27th, 1977|url=http://www.1001crash.com/index-page-tenerife-lg-2.html|access-date=7 May 2012|archive-date=11 April 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220411111436/https://www.1001crash.com/index-page-tenerife-lg-2.html|url-status=live}} Another cause was dense fog, meaning the KLM flight crew was unable to see the Pan Am aircraft on the runway until immediately before the collision.{{cite web|title=ASN Accident Description|url=https://asn.flightsafety.org/asndb/329179|website=Aviation Safety Network|access-date=26 November 2015|archive-date=2 April 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110402172426/http://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=19770327-0|url-status=live}} The accident had a lasting influence on the industry, particularly in the area of communication. An increased emphasis was placed on using standardized phraseology in air traffic control (ATC) communication by both controllers and pilots alike, thereby reducing the chance for misunderstandings. As part of these changes, the word "takeoff" was removed from general usage, and is only spoken by ATC when clearing an aircraft to take off.{{cite web|url=http://www.tenerife-information-centre.com/tenerife-airport-disaster.html|title=The Tenerife Airport Disaster – the worst in aviation history|work=The Tenerife Information Centre|access-date=29 October 2014|archive-date=11 April 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220411111410/https://www.tenerife-information-centre.com/tenerife-airport-disaster.html|url-status=live}}

{{main|List of KLM accidents and incidents}}

• Jacob Veldhuyzen van Zanten, pilot; internationally known for causing the airport disaster in 1977 at Tenerife, Spain, largely due to his misunderstanding communication between his plane and the air traffic controller
• Ingrid de Caluwé
• Bob Hiensch, flight attendant
• Joop van Werkhoven
• Leo Visser, pilot
• Lisa Westerhof, pilot
• King Willem-Alexander, guest pilot; monarch{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/may/17/dutch-king-willem-alexander-admits-to-working-part-time-as-an-airline-pilot|title=Dutch king admits he held part-time job as airline pilot|agency=Associated Press|date=17 May 2017|work=The Guardian|access-date=18 May 2017|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077|archive-date=18 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170518052923/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/may/17/dutch-king-willem-alexander-admits-to-working-part-time-as-an-airline-pilot|url-status=live}}

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{{reflist}}

• {{cite magazine |last1=Taylor|first1=H. A.|last2=Alting|first2=Peter|name-list-style=amp |title=Fokker's 'Lucky Seven'|magazine=Air Enthusiast |date=April–July 1980|issue=12 |pages=24–38 |issn=0143-5450}}
• {{cite magazine |last=West |first=Michael |title=Airliners in Warpaint - Warbirds in Civvies: 5: KLM in World War 2 |magazine=Air-Britain Archive |date=Autumn 2011 |pages=133–137 |issn=0262-4923 |ref={{harvid|West Air-Britain Archive Autumn 2011}} }}

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• [https://www.airfranceklm.com Air France-KLM] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200327214753/https://www.airfranceklm.com/ |date=27 March 2020 }}
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20191010061314/https://klm100.nl/en/history A century KLM]
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