Transitioning from one aircraft type to another is not a simple feat. That is all the more the case is the fleet in question is a sizable one as is KLM's. The Dutch flag carrier has started phasing out its Boeing 737s as it moves into a new era for its narrow body fleet which will operate the A321neo.
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KLM’s First Boeing 737-800 Exits the Fleet
KLM operated for much of the last 2 decades an almost exclusively Boeing narrow body fleet (excluding regional operations). However, that is now changing as the airline is transitioning away from the Boeing 737 and taking on more Airbus A321neo planes.
December saw the first of the older Boeing 737-800 exit KLM's fleet. The aircraft in question is a 25-year-old 737 registered PH-BXK which was delivered to KLM way back in September 2000.
The aircraft was handed over to KLM's Engineering & Maintenance department in Twente airport. There it was stripped of its engines and APU. They were all still in operational condition and will be used as spare parts for other Boeing 737s still flying.
From Boeing 737 to Airbus A321neo: A Strategic Shift
This is part of a massive renovation effort KLM is taking on to become more efficient and improve its operational margins. Departing 737NG's will be replaced by new generation A321neo aircraft which ensure better operational economics and a higher capacity.
KLM has invested heavily in the A321neo which accounts for much of the €7 billion invested by the airline in fleet renovation. This is major strategic shift for the airline that has been a loyal Boeing customer for both its wide and narrow body fleets. A step further away from Boeing for KLM and one that aligns the Dutch carrier more with sister airline Air France.
KLM’s Wider Fleet Renewal Plan
The airline is not only working on its narrow body medium-range fleet. It is also hard at work renovating its regional and wide body fleet.
As for the smallest planes in the KLM fleet, the carrier is phasing out its Embraer E190s and bringing in ultra-high efficiency E-195 E2 jets. These are not only much more fuel efficient than those used prior, but also larger with more seats.
On the larger end of the fleet spectrum its remaining loyal to Boeing as it onboards more Boeing 787s to modernize long haul operations.
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