AMSTERDAM— KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KL) will name its first Airbus A350 “The Night Watch,” after the celebrated painting by Rembrandt van Rijn. The Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) based carrier is launching a new naming theme for the A350 fleet built around famous Dutch artworks.
The aircraft is being assembled and painted in Toulouse (TLS) and is expected to join KLM at the end of August. Its first passenger flight is scheduled for September, with Toronto (YYZ) as the inaugural destination.
KLM First A350 Gets Name
KLM has linked the Netherlands with the rest of the world for more than a century. For its incoming Airbus A350 fleet, the airline has chosen to name each aircraft after an iconic Dutch artwork.
The Night Watch by Rembrandt van Rijn ranks among the most celebrated paintings in the Netherlands and is widely regarded as the country’s best-known work of art. Visitors from across the world travel to the Rijksmuseum to view it in person
The first A350, therefore, carries a name that is deeply rooted in Dutch culture and instantly recognizable worldwide.
First Commercial Flight Set for September
The Airbus A350 forms part of KLM’s ongoing fleet renewal. The type is quieter and more fuel-efficient than the previous-generation aircraft it replaces.
The first jet has now been fully painted in KLM’s distinctive livery in Toulouse. It will complete final preparations over the coming months before delivery at the end of the summer.
The aircraft will then operate its first passenger service in September on the route to Toronto.
World Business Class Certification Still Pending
The Airbus A350 offers a total of 331 seats, split across 34 in World Business Class, 26 in Premium Comfort, and 271 in Economy Class.
A revised interpretation of regulatory requirements by the aviation authorities has delayed certification of the World Business Class seats. As a result, this cabin will not be available when the first two aircraft enter service. The seat manufacturer is working to complete certification and open the cabin to customers as soon as possible.
Premium Comfort will be available from the first flight. The cabin provides additional legroom, enhanced comfort, and a dedicated onboard dining experience.
€7 Billion Fleet Renewal Programme
KLM will invest €7 billion in fleet renewal over the coming years. The plan covers the Airbus A350 and the Airbus A350F, alongside new Embraer 195-E2 aircraft for KLM Cityhopper.
The investment also includes the latest Airbus A321neo for European routes, of which KLM currently operates sixteen, and new Boeing 787 aircraft for intercontinental services.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
