In Photos: KLM Welcomes Its First A321neo

AMSTERDAM — Today, Tuesday 27, 2024, the Dutch flag carrier KLM (KL) welcomed its first-ever Airbus A321neo.

As part of a fleet renewal process that started in December 2023 with the delivery of the first A321neo to Transavia (HV), KLM will replace the aging Boeing 737s with the new Airbus.

Airways attended the delivery reception held in Amsterdam Schiphol Airports (AMS) hangar 12.

PH-AXA touched down on runway 27 at 2:52 pm local time. While waiting for the aircraft, there was a crowd of journalists, guests, and executives from the Dutch flag carrier. In line with KLM’s tradition, the aircraft ‘Swallowtail’ is named after a new theme, ‘Butterflies,’ by KLM’s employees.

Three more A321neos, Peach Blossom (Braamvlinder), Common Brimstone (Citroenvlinder), and Clouded Magpie (Porseleinvlinder), will join KL before the end of 2024.

In 2021, the Air France-KLM group ordered 100 units plus 60 options for the A320neo family. Aiming to modernize KLM’s, Transavia Netherlands’, and Transavia France’s fleets, the first unit was received on December 19, 2023.

KLM has equipped its new narrowbody aircraft with 227 seats, played in the traditional 3-3 abrest. Each Recaro seat is equipped with a USB-C charger and a personal device holder.

Compared to the previous generation Boeing 737 family, the aircraft will reduce carbon emissions by over 20%. 

The aircraft will enter commercial service on September 16, flying as KL1267 to Copenhagen (CPH). Additional destinations will include Berlin (BER) and Stockholm (ARN), followed by Paris (CDG), Prague (PRG) and Vienna (VIE).

Comments from KLM

"I’ve been looking forward to this with great anticipation. The arrival of the first A321neo marks the start of replacing our Boeing 737 fleet. The A321neo produces less noise and CO2, contributing significantly to a cleaner, quieter future. It also offers more comfort. I look forward to seeing how our passengers experience the new aircraft." Marjan Rintel, President & CEO KLM