KLM expects to receive its first Airbus A350-900 by the end of the summer. The aircraft is now in final assembly at Airbus’ facility in Toulouse.
The jet, serial number MSN809, is the first of 22 A350-900 aircraft allocated to the Dutch carrier within the Air France-KLM Group order. KLM had originally placed its own A350 order but later transferred delivery positions to Air France before securing the current allocation.
The airline invited journalists to Toulouse to present the aircraft and outline its entry into service. The A350 will be deployed initially on routes such as Toronto and Dar es Salaam. These services are today operated by the Airbus A330. The model will also take over part of the Boeing 777-200ER network on longer routes.
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KLM plans a one-for-one substitution of older aircraft as they leave the fleet. The A350-900 is intended to replace the A330 fleet and part of the 777-200ER fleet. Its range allows operations on long-haul routes with fewer restrictions, including those affected by airspace limitations.
The aircraft will enter service with 331 seats, including Business Class and Premium Comfort cabins, reflecting higher demand for premium products on intercontinental routes.
KLM also plans to introduce the A350F freighter later in the decade to replace its Boeing 747 cargo aircraft.
