KLM is doing two things at once – making face masks compulsory and scaling up its network.
KLM CityFlyer Embraer E-175 at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport – Image, Economy Class and Beyond
Firstly, the face masks – they’ll be a fact of life on KLM flights from the 11th May 2020, with them being compulsory until 31 August 2020.
The airline argues that
In situations where social distancing cannot be guaranteed, the wearing of face masks will be recommended or made compulsory. Some destinations already require face masks to be worn on board flights.
Meanwhile, the European network is showing signs of life at last, with, the airline attempting to bring back 15% of its flight network.
- Barcelona (Spain)
- Madrid (Spain)
- Rome (Italy)
- Milan (Italy)
- Budapest (Hungary)
- Prague (Czech Republic)
- Warsaw (Poland)
- Helsinki (Finland)
The flights will operate daily, seven days a week using Embraer aircraft operated by KLM CityHopper Aircraft (Embraer E-175/E-190)
Whilst there is a reduced European Network, it is designed to connect as many flights as possible in the intercontinental network.
The routes will continue to be re-opened gradually, subject to moves taken by authorities and public health measures.
Routes will gradually be reopened but may change weekly, depending on measures being taken by the authorities at the destinations.
Allowing people to get home
Whilst the route restorations are small (bear in mind, most of these cities had many flights a day with larger Boeing 737 aircraft), it gives a chance for those who have been locked down in countries to get towards home (especially in the case of Italy and Spain – where their lockdowns have been tight).
For those, it’s a chance to leave and connect via Amsterdam in the chance of getting home.
As for masks on flights… welcome to the new normal. Expect more airlines to adopt this sooner rather than later…
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