KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Flag carrier airline of the Netherlands, operating scheduled passenger and cargo services to over 150 destinations worldwide from its hub at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.
Company Type
public
Founded
1919
Headquarters
Amstelveen, Netherlands
Stock
Euronext Paris (through Air France-KLM Group): AF
About KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Air France-KLM Group is the parent company of KLM and Air France, formed through the 2004 merger of the two national carriers. The publicly traded group is listed on Euronext exchanges in Paris and Amsterdam, with the French and Dutch governments maintaining significant minority stakes.
Air France-KLM Group provides strategic oversight and capital allocation across its various airlines while allowing KLM to maintain its Dutch identity, hub operations, and brand recognition in global markets.
The group structure allows KLM and Air France to operate as independent airlines while achieving economies of scale in fleet management, purchasing, and network planning, serving as one of Europe's largest airline groups.
KLM operates as a full-service international carrier with multiple revenue streams:
- **Passenger Services:** Economy, business, and first-class passenger transportation
- **Cargo Operations:** KLM Cargo, specializing in air freight services
- **Regional Operations:** Regional flights through KLM Cityhopper
- **Low-Cost Operations:** Transavia for leisure market segments
- **Maintenance Services:** Aircraft maintenance and repair services
The airline serves business and leisure travelers, connecting the Netherlands with major global markets while maintaining a strong focus on service quality and operational excellence.
History of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines was founded in 1919, making it one of the world's oldest airlines still operating under its original name. The airline began operations in 1920, initially serving London and expanding rapidly throughout Europe in the 1920s and 1930s.
Throughout World War II, KLM maintained operations where possible and resumed its global expansion after the war. The airline became one of the founding members of the SkyTeam alliance in 2000, enhancing its global connectivity and partnership opportunities.
In the 2000s, KLM continued its growth and modernization, developing Amsterdam Airport Schiphol as one of Europe's premier international hubs. The airline invested heavily in new aircraft and maintained its reputation for quality service and operational excellence.
In 2004, KLM merged with Air France to form Air France-KLM Group, creating a major European airline alliance. The merger preserved both airline identities while creating synergies and expanded global reach.
Brands Owned by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines owns 0 brands in our database.
Stock Information
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Ownership: Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Strong backing from Air France-KLM Group with global resources
- +Strategic location at Amsterdam Schiphol with excellent connectivity
- +Premium service reputation and high-quality operations
- +Extensive global network through SkyTeam partnerships
- +Dutch reputation for reliability and efficiency
- +Independence from traditional airline bureaucracy
Considerations
- -Dependence on Air France-KLM Group performance and strategy
- -Competition from other European and international carriers
- -High operational costs in Dutch market
- -Vulnerability to global travel disruptions
- -Complex group structure with multiple airline operations
Frequently Asked Questions About KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Is KLM owned by another company?
Yes, KLM is owned by Air France-KLM Group, which was formed through the 2004 merger of Air France and KLM. KLM operates as a subsidiary while maintaining its Dutch identity.
Is KLM publicly traded?
KLM itself is not directly traded, but its parent company Air France-KLM Group is publicly traded on Euronext exchanges in Paris and Amsterdam.
When was KLM founded?
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines was founded in 1919, making it one of the world's oldest airlines still operating under its original name.
Who founded KLM?
KLM was founded in 1919 by Albert Plesman and other investors, establishing it as the Netherlands' national airline for domestic and international flights.
What is KLM's market position?
KLM is the Netherlands' flag carrier and one of the world's oldest international airlines. The airline maintains strong positions in global aviation and is a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance.
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