KLM had an Easter present of sorts – with its first Airbus A350 entering the final assembly line at Airbus Toulouse.
As can be seen, the major assemblies for the Airbus A350 are coming together as the aircraft takes shape, and parts form into an aircraft. As can be seen, the major components of the fuselage, tail and nose have been mated together
Vertical Stabiliser being integrated, with the KLM branding painted on
Under the raydome
It marks a major milestone for KLM as it works through its fleet renewal, with the airline investing over €7 billion in fleet renewal over the coming years.
The Airbus A350 represents an important step towards a cleaner and quieter fleet for KLM. Compared to the Boeing 777-200ER (which the A350 will replace), the A350 consumes 25% less fuel and has a 40% smaller noise footprint.
For passengers, the A350 will set a new standard in comfort, offering the quietest cabin in its class, improved air quality, and higher cabin pressure. Pilots benefit from a fully digital cockpit, providing new opportunities for efficiency and support.
Working through the fleet renewal.
In addition to the introduction of the Airbus A350, this includes the Embraer 195-E2 for KLM Cityhopper, new Airbus A321neo aircraft for European routes, and the Boeing 787 for intercontinental flights.
In 2027, the A350F will join the fleet for cargo operations, rounding out its current renewal plans.
As for the A350 passenger aircraft in the final assembly line, KLM expects to take delivery of its first A350 by the end of the summer. When delivered, it will join sister airline Air France, which is an A350 operator flying 40 of the class.
Images, Simone Chellini, Airways Magazine, Supplied by KLM. Used for journalistic purposes.
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