Amsterdam Schiphol Airport received the first A321neo aircraft (Airbus A321-252NX/ PH-AXA/ MSN: 11895) of Dutch national carrier KLM, a member of the Air France-KLM Group, that's revamping its narrow body fleet from the existing Boeing B737s.
The narrow-body fleet of KLM is composed of 42 Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft which is being replaced by the Airbus A320neo family aircraft, and transition began Today with the First A321neo.
For Air France-KLM group, following the delivery of a first Airbus A321neo to Transavia Netherlands on December 19, 2023, Air France-KLM continues the introduction of the A320neo aircraft family into its fleet.
On January 10, 2024, the Air France-KLM group took the delivery of a first Airbus A320neo aircraft (F-GNEO), to be operated by Transavia France.
These deliveries follow the order placed by Air France-KLM in 2021 for 100 Airbus A320neo family aircraft, with purchase rights for an additional 60 aircraft, aimed at renewal of the fleets of KLM and Transavia Netherlands, and to renew and expand the fleet of Transavia France.
The newly delivered A321neo for KLM seats 227 passengers in a two-class layout. The cabin features Airbus’ Airspace cabin with XL bins.
The A321neo is the largest member of Airbus’ best-selling A320neo Family, equipped with sharklets and powered by new generation CFM International LEAP-1A engines.
The A321neo brings a 50% noise footprint reduction and at least 20% fuel savings and CO₂ reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft.
KLM has been using the Boeing 737 NG planes and the Brazilian Embraers for short haul flights. For the long haul flights, KLM predominantly relies on Boeing 777s, however few Airbus A330s can also be noticed in their fleet.
“First, around thirty A321neos will arrive, four of which will arrive this year,” KLM said. “The A350 will also join the fleet in 2026.”
These will replace the Boeing 777s and Airbus A330s. Eventually, KLM will also replace the Boeing 747 freighter with a freighter variant of the Airbus A350.
KLM said that its choice for Airbus, a company with its roots in France, has nothing to do with its French parent company, Air France-KLM.
Dutch airline’s CEO, Marjan Rintel, Quotes :
I’ve been looking forward to this with great anticipation. The arrival of the first A321neo marks the start of replacing our Boeing 737 fleet. The A321neo produces less noise and CO2 and therefore contributes significantly to a cleaner, quieter future. It also offers more comfort. I am looking forward to see how our passengers will experience the new aircraft,” said Marjan.
An article on Air France-KLM group....
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