KLM welcomes first Airbus A350-900 to its fleet

Dutch national carrier KLM, part of the Air France-KLM Group, has taken delivery of its first Airbus A350-900, marking the introduction of the next-generation widebody into its long-haul fleet.

The aircraft is named 'The Night Watch,' after 'De Nachtwacht', the world-famous 1642 painting by Dutch Golden Age master Rembrandt van Rijn. One of the Netherlands’ most iconic works of art, 'The Night Watch' is displayed at the Rijksmuseum and attracts visitors from around the world. KLM’s first A350 carries the name as a reflection of the airline’s connection to Dutch culture and heritage.

The aircraft is part of KLM’s ongoing fleet renewal programme and will operate long-haul services from its Amsterdam Airport Schiphol hub to destinations like Toronto.

KLM currently operates an Airbus fleet comprising 10 A330 Family aircraft and 17 A321neos. The addition of the A350-900 will further support the airline’s long-haul network while replacing older-generation aircraft.

The newly delivered KLM A350-900 features a three-class cabin with 331 seats, including 34 Business Class suites with direct aisle access, 26 Premium Comfort seats and 271 Economy Class seats. The aircraft features Airbus’ Airspace cabin, designed to enhance comfort and ergonomics for passengers and crew. It also offers larger overhead luggage compartments, advanced ambient lighting and high-speed satellite connectivity for long-haul flights.

KLM’s second A350 will be named Girl with a Pearl Earring, another internationally recognised Dutch masterpiece by Johannes Vermeer.

KLM said it is investing €7 billion in fleet renewal. The programme includes the Airbus A350 for intercontinental routes, the A350F for cargo operations, the Airbus A321neo, Embraer E2 aircraft operated by KLM Cityhopper, and Boeing 787 aircraft.

“We’re delighted to welcome our first A350 to Schiphol. This is an important milestone for KLM and for the Netherlands. Fleet renewal is one of the most effective ways we can make our operations cleaner, quieter, and more fuel-efficient. We already have 17 A321neos flying on our European routes, and with the arrival of the A350, we’re taking the next step in renewing our intercontinental fleet. That means more comfort for our passengers, while also reducing our impact on our surroundings,” said Marjan Rintel, President & CEO of KLM.

Over the coming years, the Airbus A350 will replace part of KLM’s existing intercontinental fleet. According to KLM, the Airbus A350 uses approximately 25% less fuel than previous-generation aircraft and has a noise footprint around 40% smaller. The reduced noise footprint means less noise from aircraft taking off and landing for people living near airports. The A350 also features a quieter cabin and an improved onboard environment for passengers.