KLM Bids Adieu to Boeing 737-800 as Airbus Fleet Update Begins

ByAIron Newsman Hours
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KLM has officially retired its inaugural Boeing 737-800 as part of an ongoing fleet upgrade initiative. This aircraft was sent to Twente Airport (ENS) in the Netherlands for dismantling and recycling, with numerous components set to be repurposed for KLM or other airlines.

On December 5, 2025, KLM announced that after its final flight, the aircraft, designated PH-BXK, departed from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) for Twente Airport. Upon arrival, it was handed over to AELS, a company that specializes in aircraft dismantling and recycling.

To ensure the best use of resources, KLM Engineering & Maintenance extracted the engines and auxiliary power unit (APU) for future use within its own fleet. Additional parts will be reused by AELS with other airlines or recycled effectively.

KLM retired Boeing 737 800 aircraft

KLM retired Boeing 737 800 aircraft

This retirement is a part of KLM’s impressive €7 billion investment aimed at modernizing its fleet, transitioning from older aircraft like the Boeing 737-800 to newer, environmentally friendly models.

KLM is significantly investing in fleet modernization. On its European routes, A320neo and A321neo aircraft will now replace the Boeing 737. For its regional subsidiary, KLM Cityhopper, the old Embraer 190s are being replaced with new E195-E2 models.

In addition to short-haul improvements, KLM has also added four Boeing 787-10s for long-haul flights, with the final aircraft set to arrive in early 2026. Furthermore, an Airbus A350-900 will join the fleet next year, taking the place of older Boeing 777s and A330s. Cargo operations are also seeing upgrades, with three A350Fs ordered to replace the aging 747 freighters.

Overall, KLM plans to gradually replace its Boeing 737s on European routes with the quieter and more CO2-efficient Airbus A321neo.

See also  Ethiopian Airlines Plans Major Airbus, Boeing, Embraer Order

Looking ahead, KLM intends to retire its second Boeing 737-800 in January 2026, continuing its shift to Twente Airport for dismantling and recycling.

How does the modernization of KLM’s fleet impact your perception of air travel?

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