KLM Welcomes First A321neo

KLM has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321neo, marking a new milestone for the airline as it continues to transform the fleet.

The A321neo is part of an overarching commitment to being greener, more efficient, cleaner, and quieter in day-to-day flying.

KLM now says that following the delivery to its home of Amsterdam Schiphol, the aircraft will follow a process before it can enter scheduled passenger service.

The carrier is targeting a mid-September entry into service, which will allow the next few weeks to go smoothly. The jet will be deployed across European destinations.

KLM says that Copenhagen, Berlin and Stockholm will form the initial three locations to welcome the A321neo when it formally enters service.

Following these three cities, the A321neo KLM will deploy the aircraft to Paris, Prague and Vienna. This will be possible thanks to the three more A321neo jets expected to be delivered before the end of the year.

The A321neo will play an integral role in replacing the 737 fleet, which, while it has served KLM well for a prolonged period, is showing signs of age.

Moreover, the A321neo’s capabilities, from a capacity and spec standpoint to its efficiency over the 737, make it a fantastic replacement for future flying with higher comfort levels.

The difference is further highlighted when considering that the A321neo is 21% more fuel efficient than the Boeing 737, measured per passenger tonne-kilometre.

Another important consideration is the noise footprint the aircraft will create, which, at present, will be half that of the 737. This has a positive impact on residents across flight paths that the aircraft will go on to serve.

Inside the A321neo, KLM has equipped the plane with the latest technologies to ensure a product of the highest standard. The company has implemented more spacious and larger luggage bins, USB-C ports for charging, and a mobile or tablet holder.

The A321neo is just one part of an integral renewal programme valued at seven billion euros, which KLM will undertake over the following years.

KLM will replace its 737s with Airbus single-aisle jets, while the flashy, new, and incredibly favourable E2 model will replace the existing and ageing Embraer aircraft.

Looking to larger aircraft, the airline is committed to adding more Boeing 787 Dreamliners and introducing the Airbus A350, which will replace existing Boeing 777s and Airbus A330s in the fleet.