Editing KLM (section)

==History==
===Early years===
[[File:Klm-poster-1919.jpg|thumb|KLM poster featuring the airline's first commercial slogan. It is likely dated around the late 1920s, after it started service to Batavia.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.urbannebula.nl/?datatype=page&req=project&id=328|title=Urban Nebula|author=Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam|access-date=11 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202224845/http://www.urbannebula.nl/?datatype=page&req=project&id=328|archive-date=2 December 2013}}</ref>]]

In 1919, a young aviator lieutenant named [[Albert Plesman]] sponsored the ELTA aviation exhibition in [[Amsterdam]]. Attendance at the exhibition was over half a million, and after it closed, several Dutch commercial interests intended to establish a Dutch airline, which Plesman was nominated to head.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU>{{cite journal|journal=International Directory of Company Histories|year=1999|volume=28|title=Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij, N.V. History|url=http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/koninklijke-luchtvaart-maatschappij-n-v-history/|access-date=30 July 2013|archive-date=7 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150507092737/http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/koninklijke-luchtvaart-maatschappij-n-v-history/|url-status=live}}</ref> In September 1919, [[Wilhelmina of the Netherlands|Queen Wilhelmina]] awarded the yet-to-be-founded KLM its "Royal" ("''[[Koninklijk]]e''") predicate.<ref name=KLMHistory>{{cite web|title=History|url=http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/about-klm/history/index.html|work=KLM Corporate|publisher=KLM|access-date=30 July 2013|archive-date=24 July 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130724011731/http://www.klm.com/corporate/en/about-klm/history/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 7 October 1919, eight Dutch businessmen, including [[Frits Fentener van Vlissingen (1882)|Frits Fentener van Vlissingen]], founded KLM as one of the first commercial airline companies. Plesman became its first administrator and director.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU />

The first KLM flight took place on 17 May 1920. KNLM's first pilot, Jerry Shaw, flew from [[Croydon Airport]], London, to Amsterdam.<ref name=KLMHistory /> The flight was flown using a leased [[Aircraft Transport and Travel]] [[Airco DH.16|de Havilland DH-16]],<ref name=KLMHistory /> registration G-EALU, which was carrying two British journalists and some newspapers. In 1920, KLM carried 440 passengers and 22 tons of freight. In April 1921, after a winter hiatus, KLM resumed its services using its pilots, and [[Fokker F.II]] and [[Fokker F.III]] aircraft.<ref name=KLMHistory /> In 1921, KLM started scheduled services.

[[File:COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Groepsportret voorafgaand aan het vertrek van directeur Rendorp van de KNILM per Fokker F-XII van de KLM naar Nederland TMnr 60027465.jpg|thumb|KLM Fokker F-XVIII departing from the [[Dutch East Indies]], 1932]]
KLM's first intercontinental experimental flight took off on 1 October 1924.<ref name=KLMHistory /> The final destination was [[Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport|Jakarta]] (then called '[[Batavia, Dutch East Indies|Batavia]]'), [[Java]], in the [[Dutch East Indies]] (present-day [[Indonesia]]); the flight used a [[Fokker F.VII]]<ref name=KLMHistory /> with registration H-NACC and was piloted by Jan Thomassen à Thuessink van der Hoop.<ref name="Aviacrash H-NACC">{{cite web | url=http://www.aviacrash.nl/paginas/h-nacc.htm | title=H-NACC | work=Aviacrash.nl | access-date=11 October 2015 | language=nl | archive-date=7 April 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230407203131/http://www.aviacrash.nl/paginas/h-nacc.htm | url-status=live }}</ref> In 1927, Baltimore millionaire [[Van Lear Black]], who had heard about the 1924 flight, chartered H-NADP to do the same flight, which departed June 15 and went successfully (16 days), and flew back to much rejoicing. This inspired KLM to make a second test flight, which left on 1 October, returning successfully with much experience gained.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.klm-va.nl/php/sites/event_historical/history_fokker.php|title=Fokker F.VII/VIIb-3m|work=klm-va.nl|access-date=4 December 2022|language=en|archive-date=5 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221205065330/https://www.klm-va.nl/php/sites/event_historical/history_fokker.php|url-status=live}}</ref> In September 1929, regular scheduled services between Amsterdam and Batavia commenced. Until the outbreak of the [[Second World War]] in 1939, this was the world's longest-distance scheduled service by airplane.<ref name=KLMHistory /> By 1926, it was offering flights to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Brussels, Paris, London, Bremen, Copenhagen, and Malmö, using primarily Fokker F.II and Fokker F.III aircraft.<ref name="Heijn" >('''Dutch''') Albert Heijn, ed (1969) ''KL-50 – logboek van vijftig jaar vliegen''. Meijer, Amsterdam.</ref>

[[File:COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Een groep Europeanen staat op het vliegveld Rambang voor het vliegtuig de Uiver dat is aangekomen op Lombok na afloop van de London-Melbourne-race in 1934 TMnr 10010712.jpg|thumb|KLM [[Douglas DC-2]] aircraft ''Uiver'' in transit at Rambang airfield on the east coast of [[Lombok]] island following the aircraft being placed second in the [[MacRobertson Air Race]] from [[RAF Mildenhall]], England, to Melbourne in 1934<ref>{{cite web |last= |first= |date=October 7, 2019 |title=The Flying Dutchmen: 100 years of KLM |url=https://www.europeana.eu/en/blog/the-flying-dutchmen-100-years-of-klm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191008081520/https://blog.europeana.eu/2019/10/the-flying-dutchmen-100-years-of-klm/ |archive-date=8 October 2019 |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=[[Europeana]]}}</ref>]]

In 1930, KLM carried 15,143 passengers. The [[Douglas DC-2]] was introduced on the Batavia service in 1934. The first experimental transatlantic KLM flight was between Amsterdam and [[Curaçao]] in December 1934 using the [[Fokker F.XVIII]] "Snip".<ref name=KLMHistory />

In July 1935 the KLM had three major international passenger flight crashes in one week. The [[1935 Amsterdam Fokker F.XXII crash|"Kwikstaart" crashed]] in Amsterdam on 14 July, the "Maraboe" in [[Bushir]] and on 20 July and the [[1935 San Giacomo Douglas DC-2 crash|“Gaai” crashed]] in [[Pian San Giacomo|San Giacomo]].<ref name=vv1>{{cite web|url=https://www.vergetenverleden.nl/KLM.html|title=Drie KLM vliegrampen in één week|website=vergetenverleden.nl|language=nl|access-date=1 September 2023|archive-date=7 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207171204/https://www.vergetenverleden.nl/KLM.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The week of 14 to 20 July 1935 is known as the "black week". In these three crashes KLM lost three airplanes and lost crew in two crashes. With an earlierer crash in April of the "Leeuwerik", KLM had lost in 1935 around 15% of its pilots.<ref name=lib>{{cite web|url=https://ilibrariana.wordpress.com/2017/06/01/luchtvaartpionier-j-s-w-van-der-feijst-1904-1935/|title=LUCHTVAARTPIONIER J.S.W.VAN DER FEIJST (1904-1935)|work=Librariana|date=June 2017|language=nl|access-date=1 September 2023|archive-date=12 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230812205404/https://ilibrariana.wordpress.com/2017/06/01/luchtvaartpionier-j-s-w-van-der-feijst-1904-1935/|url-status=live}}</ref> As a result there was a shortage of crew members and airplanes. The Amsterdam—Milan flight service was as a result taken over by [[Deutsche Lufthansa]].<ref name=avia>{{cite web |url= http://www.aviacrash.nl/paginas/gaai.htm |title= De Gaai verongelukt bij San Giacomo |website= aviacrash.nl |language= nl |access-date= 1 September 2023 |archive-date= 12 August 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230812100346/http://www.aviacrash.nl/paginas/gaai.htm |url-status= live }}</ref>

The first of the airline's [[Douglas DC-3]] aircraft were delivered in 1936; these replaced the DC-2s on the service via Batavia to [[Sydney Airport|Sydney]]. KLM was the first airline to serve [[Manchester Airport|Manchester's new Ringway airport]], starting in June 1938. KLM was the only civilian airline to receive the [[Douglas DC-5]]; the airline used two of them in the West Indies and sold two to the East Indies government, and is thus the only airline to have operated all Douglas 'DC' models other than the DC-1.

====Second World War====
[[File:Douglas C-47A PH-TBP KLM ed Ringway 20.05.47 edited-2.jpg|thumb|KLM [[Douglas DC-3]] at [[Manchester Airport]] in 1947]]

The outbreak of the [[Second World War]] in September 1939 restricted KLM's operations, with flights over France and Germany prohibited, and many of its aircraft painted in overall orange to limit the potential for confusion with military aircraft. European routes were limited to services to Scandinavia, Belgium and the UK, with flights to Lisbon (bypassing both British and French airspace) starting in April 1940.{{sfn|West ''Air-Britain Archive'' Autumn 2011|p=134}}

When Germany invaded the Netherlands on 10 May 1940, several KLM aircraft—mostly DC-3s and a few DC-2s—were en route to or from the Far East, or were operating services in Europe. Five [[Douglas DC-3|DC-3s]] and one [[Douglas DC-2|DC-2]] were taken to Britain. During the war, these aircraft and crew members flew scheduled passenger flights between Bristol and Lisbon under [[British Overseas Airways Corporation|BOAC]] flight numbers and registration.{{citation needed|date=November 2015}}<ref>{{Cite journal |last=West |first=Michael |date=September 2011 |title=KLM in World War 2 |url=https://air-britain.com/pdfs/archive/Archive_2011.pdf |journal=Air-Britain Archive |volume=32 |issue=3 |page=134 |issn=0262-4923}}</ref>

On 3 March 1942, Douglas DC-3 PH-ALP "''Pelikaan''", then registered as PK-AFV, was [[1942 KNILM Douglas DC-3 shootdown|shot down over Western Australia]] by [[Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service]] [[Mitsubishi A6M Zero]]s during the [[attack on Broome]] while carrying a package of diamonds. The DC-3 crash landed at Carnot Bay, 80 kilometers from Broome. ''Pelikaan'' was subsequently strafed by the Zeros that had shot it down, killing three passengers and the flight engineer. Diamonds worth an estimated  150,000–300,000 [[A£|Australian pounds]] were stolen from the wreckage of the aircraft, and nobody has been convicted of the crime.

Douglas DC-3 PH-ALI "''Ibis''", then registered as G-AGBB, was attacked by the [[Luftwaffe]] on 15 November 1942, 19 April 1943, and finally shot down on 1 June 1943 as [[BOAC Flight 777]], killing all passengers and crew.

Some KLM aircraft and their crews ended up in the Australia-Dutch East Indies region, where they helped transport refugees from Japanese aggression in that area.<ref>{{cite web|date=2019-10-07|title=Celebrating KLM Royal Dutch Airlines 100th Anniversary|url=https://metroairportnews.com/celebrating-klm-royal-dutch-airlines-100th-anniversary/|access-date=2022-02-25|website=Metropolitan Airport News|language=en-US|archive-date=8 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220308154722/https://metroairportnews.com/celebrating-klm-royal-dutch-airlines-100th-anniversary/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Although operations paused in Europe, KLM continued to fly and expand in the Caribbean.<ref>{{cite web |last=Ogier |first=Frido |date=2016-05-05 |title=From Snipe to ALM – The history of KLM's West-Indian Operation |url=https://blog.klm.com/from-snipe-to-alm-the-history-of-klms-west-indian-operation/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191008133916/https://blog.klm.com/from-snipe-to-alm-the-history-of-klms-west-indian-operation/ |archive-date=8 October 2019 |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=blog.klm.com}}</ref>

==== Post-World War II ====

{{Rail freight
|title=Revenue passenger-kilometers, scheduled flights only, in millions
|float=left
|1947|454
|1950|766
|1955|1,485
|1960|2,660
|1965|3,342
|1971|6,330
|1975|10,077
|1980|14,058
|1985|18,039
|1995|44,458
|source=ICAO Digest of Statistics for 1947–55, IATA World Air Transport Statistics 1960–1995
}}
After the end of the Second World War in August 1945, KLM immediately started to rebuild its network. Since the Dutch East Indies were in a [[Indonesian National Revolution|state of revolt]], Plesman prioritised re-establishing KLM's route to Batavia. This service was reinstated by the end of 1945.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU /> Domestic and European flights resumed in September 1945, initially with a fleet of Douglas [[Douglas DC-3|DC-3s]] and [[Douglas DC-4]]s.<ref name=KLMHistory /> On 21 May 1946, KLM was the first continental European airline to start scheduled transatlantic flights between Amsterdam and [[New York City]] using Douglas DC-4 aircraft.<ref name=KLMHistory /> By 1948, KLM had reconstructed its network and services to Africa, North and South America, and the [[Caribbean]] resumed.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU />
[[File:Lockheed L-749A PH-TDK KLM RWY 07.07.53 edited-2.jpg|thumb|[[Lockheed Constellation|Lockheed L-749A Constellation]] of KLM in 1953]]
Long-range, pressurized [[Lockheed Constellation]]s<ref>{{cite web |last=Ogier |first=Frido |date=2014-09-20 |title=A Gracious Lady – The Lockheed Constellation |url=https://blog.klm.com/a-gracious-lady-the-lockheed-constellation/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151224103927/https://blog.klm.com/a-gracious-lady-the-lockheed-constellation/ |archive-date=24 December 2015 |access-date=2023-11-24 |work=KLM Blog}}</ref> and [[Douglas DC-6]]s<ref>{{cite web |last=Platoni |first=Kara |date=2009-07-01 |title=The Six |url=https://www.smithsonianmag.com/air-space-magazine/the-six-136034182/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151223190708/http://www.airspacemag.com/ist/?next=%2Fhistory-of-flight%2Fthe-six-136034182%2F |archive-date=23 December 2015 |access-date=2023-11-24 |publisher=Smithsonian (magazine)}}</ref> joined KLM's fleet in the late 1940s; the [[Convair 240]] short-range pressurized twin-engine airliner began European flights for the company in late 1948.<ref name="(Airline)1953">{{cite book|author=KLM (Airline)|title=Report|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=C0klAAAAMAAJ|year=1953}}</ref>

During the immediate post-war period, the Dutch government expressed interest in gaining a majority stake in KLM, thus partially nationalizing it. Plesman wanted KLM to remain a private company under private control; he allowed the Dutch government to acquire a minority stake in the airline.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU /> In 1950, KLM carried 356,069 passengers. The expansion of the network continued in the 1950s with the addition of several destinations in western North America.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU /> KLM's fleet expanded with the addition of new versions of the Lockheed Constellation and [[Lockheed L-188 Electra|Lockheed Electra]], of which KLM was the first European airline to fly.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU />

[[File:Vickers Viscount 803 PH-VIF KLM RWY 08.64 edited-4.jpg|thumb|KLM [[Vickers Viscount]] 803]]
On 31 December 1953, the founder and president of KLM, Albert Plesman, died at the age of 64.<ref name="FI founder 1959">{{cite journal |title=The Flying Dutchman is Forty |journal=Flight International |date=2 October 1959 |volume=76 |issue=2638 |page=321 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1959/1959%20-%202512.html |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=7 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190107045907/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1959/1959%20-%202512.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="FI founder 1971">{{cite journal|title=The Netherlands' Aviation Industry – KLM Royal Dutch Airlines|journal=Flight International|date=13 May 1971|volume=99|issue=3244|page=686|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1971/1971%20-%200777.html|access-date=17 February 2013|archive-date=7 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190107045909/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1971/1971%20-%200777.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He was succeeded as president by [[Fons Aler]].<ref>{{cite journal |title=Civil Aviation – To Succeed Dr. Plesman |journal=Flight International |date=19 March 1954 |volume=65 |issue=2356 |page=347 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1954/1954%20-%200767.html |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522040235/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1954/1954%20-%200767.html |url-status=live }}</ref> After Plesman's death, the company and other airlines entered a difficult economic period. The conversion to jet aircraft placed a further financial burden on KLM. The Netherlands government increased its ownership of the company to two-thirds, thus partly nationalizing it. The board of directors remained under the control of private shareholders.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU />

On 25 July 1957, the airline introduced its flight simulator for the [[Douglas DC-7]]C – the last KLM aircraft with piston engines – which opened the transpolar route from Amsterdam via [[Anchorage]] to [[Tokyo]] on 1 November 1958.<ref name=KLMHistory /> Each crew flying the transpolar route over the Arctic was equipped with a winter survival kit, including a 7.62&nbsp;mm selective-fire [[AR-10]] carbine for use against polar bears, in the event the plane was forced down onto the polar ice.<ref>Pikula, Sam (Major), ''The ArmaLite AR-10'', Regnum Publications (1998), p. 73</ref> The four-engine turboprop [[Vickers Viscount]] 800 was introduced on European routes in 1957.<ref name="Airline Timetable Images">{{cite web|url=http://www.timetableimages.com/|title=Airline Timetable Images|website=www.timetableimages.com|access-date=2 August 2018|archive-date=2 February 2001|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010202024400/http://www.timetableimages.com/|url-status=live}}</ref> Beginning in September 1959, KLM introduced the four-engine turboprop [[Lockheed L-188 Electra]] onto some of its European and Middle Eastern routes.

===1960s-1970s: Jet age===

In March 1960, the airline introduced the first [[Douglas DC-8]] jet into its fleet.<ref name=KLMHistory /> In 1961, KLM reported its first year of losses.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU /> In 1961, the airline's president Fons Aler was succeeded by [[Ernst van der Beugel]]. However, This leadership change did not lead to a reversal of KLM's financial difficulties.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU /> Van der Beugel resigned as president in 1963 for health reasons.<ref>{{cite journal |title=KLM Directors Resign |journal=Flight International |date=10 January 1963 |volume=83 |issue=2809 |page=45 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1963/1963%20-%200045.html |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522042310/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1963/1963%20-%200045.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Horatius Albarda was appointed to succeed Ernst van der Beugel as president of KLM in 1963.<ref>{{cite journal |title=KLM's New President |journal=Flight International |date=27 June 1963 |volume=83 |issue=2833 |page=1010 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1963/1963%20-%201041.html |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522054143/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1963/1963%20-%201041.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Albarda initiated a reorganization of the company, which led to the reduction of staff and air services.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU /> In 1965, Albarda died in an air crash and was succeeded as president by Dr. Gerrit van der Wal.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Death of KLM President|journal=Flight International|date=27 May 1965|volume=87|issue=2933|page=820|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1965/1965%20-%201472.html|access-date=17 February 2013|archive-date=22 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522032422/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1965/1965%20-%201472.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|title=New KLM President|journal=Flight International|date=24 June 1965|volume=87|issue=2937|page=1010|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1965/1965%20-%201900.html|access-date=17 February 2013|archive-date=22 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522045602/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1965/1965%20-%201900.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Van der Wal forged an agreement with the Dutch government that KLM would be once again run as a private company. By 1966, the stake of the Dutch government in KLM was reduced to a minority stake of 49.5%.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU /> In 1966, KLM introduced the [[Douglas DC-9]] on European and Middle East routes.

[[File:Lockheed 188 Electra PH-LLD KLM 07.65.jpg|thumb|KLM [[Lockheed L-188 Electra]] turboprop airliner in 1965]]
The new terminal buildings at [[Amsterdam Airport Schiphol]] opened in April 1967, and in 1968 the stretched [[Douglas DC-8-63]] ("Super DC-8") entered service.<ref name=KLMHistory /> With 244 seats, the Super DC-8 was the largest airliner in scheduled passenger service at the time, although its size was surpassed by that of the [[Boeing 747]] first flown in 1969. On 6 March 1967,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://active.boeing.com/commercial/orders/displaystandardreport.cfm?cboCurrentModel=747&optReportType=AllModels&cboAllModel=747&ViewReportF=View+Report|title=747 Model Summary|publisher=Boeing|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201008190936/http://active.boeing.com/commercial/orders/displaystandardreport.cfm?cboCurrentModel=747&optReportType=AllModels&cboAllModel=747&ViewReportF=View+Report|url-status=dead|archive-date=2020-10-08|access-date=June 26, 2023}}</ref> KLM ordered the 747 as its first [[Boeing]] aircraft, which marked the beginning of its use of widebody aircraft and an improved relationship between the airline and Boeing since the 1939 crash of a [[Boeing 307 Stratoliner#Accidents and incidents|Boeing 307 Stratoliner]] carrying KLM representatives on a demonstration flight.<ref>{{cite book|last=Serling|first= Robert J.|date=1992|title=Legend & Legacy: The Story of Boeing and Its People|location=New York|publisher=St. Martin's Press|page=156|isbn=031205890X}}</ref> To negotiate for lower unit prices and form a maintenance pool for its 747 fleet, KLM formed the KSS maintenance consortium in 1969 with [[Scandinavian Airlines]] and [[Swissair]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.boeing.com/commercial/aeromagazine/aero_01/textonly/a01txt.html|title=SAS : The United Nations of the Air|publisher=Boeing|access-date=June 26, 2023|archive-date=26 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230626094512/https://www.boeing.com/commercial/aeromagazine/aero_01/textonly/a01txt.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.key.aero/article/rise-and-fall-swissair|title=The rise and fall of Swissair|author=Otto, K.|publisher=Key.Aero|date=10 July 2022|access-date=26 June 2023|archive-date=26 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230626094512/https://www.key.aero/article/rise-and-fall-swissair|url-status=live}} {{subscription required}}</ref><ref name="KLM742">{{Cite web|url=https://www.key.aero/article/klms-dutch-queens-sky|title=KLM's Dutch Queens of the Skies|author=Cross, L.|publisher=Key.Aero|date=7 April 2021|access-date=16 February 2024|archive-date=16 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240216111215/https://www.key.aero/article/klms-dutch-queens-sky|url-status=live}} {{subscription required}}</ref> Despite showing initial interest in the prototype [[Boeing 747#747-100|747-100]] variant, KLM instead acquired the higher-gross-weight [[Boeing 747#747-200|747-200B]] powered by [[Pratt & Whitney JT9D]] engines, becoming the first airline to put the type into service on 14 February 1971.<ref name=KLMHistory /><ref name="KLM742"/><ref>{{cite web |title=Aircraft owner's and operator's guide: 747-200/-300 |url=https://www.aircraft-commerce.com/sample_article_folder/owners_guide.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111009004335/http://www.aircraft-commerce.com/sample_articles/sample_articles/owners_guide.pdf |archive-date=9 October 2011 |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=Aircraft Commerce |publisher=}}</ref> In March 1971, KLM opened its current headquarters in [[Amstelveen]].<ref name=KLMHistory /> In 1972, it purchased the first of several [[McDonnell Douglas DC-10]] aircraft—McDonnell Douglas's response to the 747.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU />

[[File:KLM Boeing 747-206 Volpati-1.jpg|thumb|KLM [[Boeing 747-200|Boeing 747-206B]] in 1971]]

In 1973, Sergio Orlandini was appointed to succeed Gerrit van der Wal as president of KLM.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU /><ref>{{cite web |last=Vischer |first=Freddy |title=The years 1969 – 1978 |url=http://www.tca.viscal.net/klm/history/histo-1969-1978.htm |publisher=Tradewind Caribbean Airlines |access-date=17 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130705020245/http://www.tca.viscal.net/klm/history/histo-1969-1978.htm |archive-date=5 July 2013 }}</ref> At the time, KLM, as well as other airlines, had to deal with overcapacity. Orlandini proposed to convert KLM 747s to "combis" that could carry a combination of passengers and freight in a mixed configuration on the main deck of the aircraft.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU /> In November 1975, the first of these seven [[Boeing 747#747-200|Boeing 747-200BM]] [[Combi aircraft]] were added to the KLM fleet.<ref name=KLMHistory /> The airline previously operated DC-8 passenger and freight combi aircraft as well and later operated [[Boeing 747-400]] combi aircraft.

The [[1973 oil crisis]], which caused difficult economic conditions, led KLM to seek government assistance in arranging debt refinancing. The airline issued additional shares of stock to the government in return for its money. In the late 1970s, the government's stake had again increased to a majority of 78%, effectively re-nationalizing it.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU /> The company management remained under the control of private stakeholders.<ref name=KLMHistory />

=== 1980s-1990s: International expansion ===
[[File:McDonnell Douglas DC-8-63, KLM - Royal Dutch Airlines AN1108402.jpg|thumb|KLM [[Douglas DC-8-63]] at [[London Heathrow Airport]] in 1982. The DC-8 was the mainstay of the KLM narrowbody jet fleet.]]
In 1980, KLM carried 9,715,069 passengers. In 1983, it reached an agreement with Boeing to upgrade ten of its Boeing 747-200 aircraft (Three 747-200Bs and seven 747-200Ms) with the stretched-upper-deck modification. The work started in 1984 at the Boeing factory in [[Everett, Washington]], and finished in 1986. The converted aircraft were called Boeing 747-200SUD or 747-300, which the airline operated in addition to three newly built Boeing 747-300s manufactured from the ground up. In 1983, KLM took delivery of the first of ten [[Airbus A310]] passenger jets.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU /> Sergio Orlandini retired in 1987 and was succeeded as president of KLM by Jan de Soet.<ref>{{cite journal |title=News Scan – KLM Royal Dutch Airlines |journal=Flight International |date=8 November 1986 |volume=130 |issue=4036 |page=8 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1986/1986%20-%202950.html |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522060609/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1986/1986%20-%202950.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1986, the Dutch government's shareholding in KLM was reduced to 54.8 percent.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU /> It was expected that this share would be further reduced during the decade.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU /> The [[Boeing 747-400]] was introduced into KLM's fleet in June 1989.<ref name=KLMHistory />

With the liberalization of the European market, KLM started developing its hub at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol by feeding its network with traffic from affiliated airlines.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU /> As part of its development of a worldwide network, KLM acquired a 20% stake in [[Northwest Airlines]] in July 1989.<ref name=KLMHistory /> In 1990, KLM carried 16,000,000 passengers. KLM president Jan de Soet retired at the end of 1990 and was succeeded in 1991 by Pieter Bouw.<ref>{{cite journal |title=KLM Names New MD |journal=Flight International |date=28 February 1990 |volume=137 |issue=4205 |page=36 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1990/1990%20-%200572.html |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522035258/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1990/1990%20-%200572.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In December 1991, KLM was the first European airline to introduce a frequent flyer loyalty program, which was called ''Flying Dutchman''.<ref name=KLMHistory />

==== Joint venture with Northwest Airlines ====
{{multiple image
 | direction = vertical
 | width = 220
 | image1 = Northwest Airlines-KLM DC-10 hybrid livery Spijkers.jpg
 | caption1 = A [[McDonnell Douglas DC-10]] operated by [[Northwest Airlines]] (tail number N237NW) in a hybrid Northwest-KLM livery (1999). This photo shows the starboard (above) and port side of the aircraft (below).
 | image2 = Northwest Airlines-KLM DC-10 hybrid livery KvW.jpg
 }}
In January 1993 the United States Department of Transportation granted KLM and Northwest Airlines anti-trust immunity, which allowed them to intensify their partnership.<ref name=KLMHistory /> As of September 1993, the airlines operated their flights between the United States and Europe as part of a joint venture.<ref name=KLMHistory /> In March 1994, KLM and Northwest Airlines introduced World Business Class on intercontinental routes.<ref name=KLMHistory /> KLM's stake in Northwest Airlines was increased to 25% in 1994.<ref name=KLMHistoryFU />

KLM introduced the [[Boeing 767|Boeing 767-300ER]] in July 1995.<ref name=KLMHistory /> In January 1996, KLM acquired a 26% share in [[Kenya Airways]], the flag-carrier airline of Kenya.<ref name=KLMHistory /> In 1997, Pieter Bouw resigned as president of KLM and was succeeded by [[L. M. van Wijk|Leo van Wijk]].<ref>{{cite journal |title=People at KLM |journal=Flight International |date=4 June 1997 |volume=151 |issue=4577 |page=52 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1997/1997%20-%201500.html |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522041821/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1997/1997%20-%201500.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In August 1998, KLM repurchased all regular shares from the Dutch government to make KLM a private company.<ref name=KLMHistory /> On 1 November 1999, KLM founded [[AirCare]]s, a communication and fundraising platform supporting worthy causes and focusing on underprivileged children.<ref name=KLMHistory />

KLM renewed its intercontinental fleets by replacing the Boeing 767s, Boeing 747-300s, and eventually, the [[McDonnell Douglas MD-11]]s with [[Boeing 777|Boeing 777-200ERs]] and [[Airbus A330|Airbus A330-200s]]. Some 747s were withdrawn from service first. The MD-11s remained in service until October 2014.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/tedreed/2014/11/15/good-bye-md-11-too-bad-nobody-ever-loved-you/ | title=Good Bye MD-11 – Too Bad Nobody Ever Loved You | work=Forbes | date=15 November 2014 | access-date=10 October 2015 | author=Ted Reed | archive-date=26 August 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826104542/https://www.forbes.com/sites/tedreed/2014/11/15/good-bye-md-11-too-bad-nobody-ever-loved-you/ | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite press release | url=http://news.klm.com/klm-operates-last-md-11-passenger-flight | title=KLM Operates Last MD-11 Passenger Flight | publisher=KLM | date=26 October 2014 | access-date=10 October 2015 | archive-date=29 September 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150929012956/http://news.klm.com/klm-operates-last-md-11-passenger-flight | url-status=live }}</ref> The first Boeing 777 was received on 25 October 2003, while the first Airbus A330-200 was introduced on 25 August 2005.<ref name=KLMHistory />

===2000s: Air France-KLM merger ===
On 30 September 2003 [[Air France]] and KLM agreed to a merger plan in which Air France and KLM would become subsidiaries of a holding company called [[Air France-KLM]]. Both airlines would retain their own brands; both [[Charles de Gaulle Airport]] and [[Amsterdam Airport Schiphol]] would become key hubs.<ref>{{cite news|title=Air France and KLM get close|url=http://www.economist.com/node/2098740|newspaper=The Economist|access-date=17 February 2013|date=6 October 2003|archive-date=24 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024040745/http://www.economist.com/node/2098740|url-status=live}}</ref> In February 2004 the [[European Commission]] and [[United States Department of Justice]] approved the proposed merger of the airlines.<ref>{{cite press release |title=Commission clears merger between Air France and KLM subject to conditions |url=http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_IP-04-194_en.htm |publisher=European Commission |date=11 February 2004 |access-date=18 February 2013 |archive-date=21 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130521234953/http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_IP-04-194_en.htm |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=History 2004 |url=http://www.skyteam.com/en/About-us/Organization/History/2004/ |publisher=SkyTeam |access-date=18 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130208012936/http://www.skyteam.com/en/About-us/Organization/History/2004/ |archive-date=8 February 2013}}</ref> In April 2004 an exchange offer in which KLM shareholders exchanged their KLM shares for Air France shares took place.<ref>{{cite press release |title=Air France exchange offer for all common shares of KLM |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/56316/000115697304000389/u47326e425.htm |publisher=Air France |date=2 April 2004 |access-date=18 February 2013 |archive-date=2 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130602064204/http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/56316/000115697304000389/u47326e425.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> Since 5 May 2004 Air France-KLM has been listed on the [[Euronext]] exchanges in Paris, Amsterdam and New York.<ref name=referencedoc0405>{{cite web |url=http://www.airfranceklm-finance.com/en/content/download/5076/32313/file/Reference-Document_2004-05_EN.pdf |title=2004–05 Reference Document |date=12 July 2005 |publisher=Air France–KLM Finance |access-date=18 February 2013 |page=6 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131019120023/http://www.airfranceklm-finance.com/en/content/download/5076/32313/file/Reference-Document_2004-05_EN.pdf |archive-date=19 October 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In September 2004, the merger was completed by creation of the Air France-KLM holding company.<ref name=referencedoc0405 /> The merger resulted in the world's largest airline group and should have led to an estimated annual cost-saving of between €400 million and €500 million.<ref name=afklmergerdeal>{{cite press release |title=Air France – KLM, A Global Airline Market Leader |url=http://corporate.airfrance.com/uploads/media/airfrance_klm_a_global_airline_market_leader_01.pdf |publisher=Air France / KLM |date=5 May 2004 |access-date=18 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130623150458/http://corporate.airfrance.com/uploads/media/airfrance_klm_a_global_airline_market_leader_01.pdf |archive-date=23 June 2013}}</ref>

It did not appear that KLM's longstanding joint venture with Northwest Airlines—which merged with [[Delta Air Lines]] in 2008—was affected by the merger with Air France. KLM and Northwest joined the SkyTeam alliance in September 2004. Also in 2004, senior management came under fire for providing itself with controversial bonuses after the merger with Air France, while 4,500 jobs were lost at KLM. After external pressure, management gave up on these bonuses.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.eurofound.europa.eu/publications/article/2004/klm-senior-managers-forgo-controversial-bonuses |title=KLM senior managers forgo controversial bonuses |publisher=Eurofound |access-date=21 June 2023 |archive-date=21 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230621043212/https://www.eurofound.europa.eu/publications/article/2004/klm-senior-managers-forgo-controversial-bonuses |url-status=live }}</ref>

In March 2007 KLM started to use the [[Amadeus CRS]] reservation system, along with partner Kenya Airways. After 10 years as president of the airline, Leo van Wijk resigned from his position and was succeeded by [[Peter Hartman]].<ref>{{cite web |title=People: 5 December 2006 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/people-5-december-2006-210896/ |publisher=Flight International |access-date=17 February 2013 |date=5 December 2006 |archive-date=22 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522051535/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/people-5-december-2006-210896/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== 2010s ===
[[File:PH-BGU.jpg|thumb|A KLM [[Boeing 737-700]] with a "100 year" livery taking off from [[Amsterdam Schiphol Airport]]]]
Beginning in September 2010, KLM integrated the passenger division of [[Martinair]] into KLM, transferring all personnel and routes. By November 2011, Martinair consisted of only the cargo and maintenance division.<ref>{{cite web|title=Laatste passagiersvlucht Martinair |url=http://www.blikopnieuws.nl/bericht/136430/Laatste_passagiersvlucht_Martinair.html |publisher=Blik op Nieuws.nl |access-date=1 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111101142242/http://www.blikopnieuws.nl/bericht/136430/Laatste_passagiersvlucht_Martinair.html |archive-date= 1 November 2011 |date=31 October 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In March 2011, KLM and [[InselAir]] reached an agreement for cooperation on InselAir destinations, thus expanding its passenger services. Beginning 27 March 2011, KLM passengers could fly to all InselAir destinations through InselAir's hubs in [[Curaçao]] and [[Sint Maarten]].<ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.facebook.com/notes/inselair/inselair-and-klm-sign-agreement/197906790229712 | title=InselAir and KLM sign agreement | publisher=InselAir | date=18 March 2011 | access-date=13 October 2015 | archive-date=11 September 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911194744/https://www.facebook.com/notes/inselair/inselair-and-klm-sign-agreement/197906790229712 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.routesonline.com/news/29/breaking-news/104521/inselair-to-offer-regional-flights-for-klm/ | title=InselAir to Offer Regional Flights for KLM | publisher=Routes Online | date=21 March 2011 | access-date=13 October 2015 | archive-date=7 July 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170707202351/http://www.routesonline.com//news/29/breaking-news/104521/inselair-to-offer-regional-flights-for-klm/ | url-status=live }}</ref> This cooperation was extended to a code share agreement in 2012.<ref>{{cite press release | url=http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-en-inselair-starten-een-codeshare-en/ | title=KLM and InselAir To Initiate Code-Sharing | publisher=KLM | access-date=13 October 2015 | archive-date=22 December 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222090104/http://nieuws.klm.com/klm-en-inselair-starten-een-codeshare-en/ | url-status=live }}</ref> In early 2018, the cooperation with Inselair was terminated, including any interlining agreements, after Inselair found itself in financial difficulties which forced the airline to sell off part of its fleet and cancel some of its routes.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://curacaochronicle.com/local/klm-ends-cooperation-with-inselair/ |title=KLM ends cooperation with InselAir – Curaçao Chronicle |publisher=curacaochronicle.com |date=16 February 2018 |access-date=30 May 2018 |archive-date=8 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180608145347/http://curacaochronicle.com/local/klm-ends-cooperation-with-inselair/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

On 20 February 2013, KLM announced that Peter Hartman would resign as president and CEO of KLM on 1 July 2013. He was succeeded by [[Camiel Eurlings]]. Hartman remained employed by the company until he retired on 1 January 2014.<ref>{{cite press release |title=Camiel Eurlings Appointed KLM President & CEO |url=http://nieuws.klm.com/camiel-eurlings-wordt-president-directeur-van-klm-en/ |publisher=KLM |date=20 February 2013 |access-date=20 February 2013 |archive-date=23 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130223024555/http://nieuws.klm.com/camiel-eurlings-wordt-president-directeur-van-klm-en |url-status=live }}</ref> On 15 October 2014, KLM announced that Eurlings, in joint consultation with the supervisory board, had decided to immediately resign as president and CEO. As of this date, he was succeeded by [[Pieter Elbers]].<ref name=elbersceo>{{cite press release |title=Pieter Elbers appointed President and CEO of KLM, replacing Camiel Eurlings |url=http://news.klm.com/en/pieter-elbers-appointed-president-and-ceo-of-klm-replacing-camiel-eurlings/ |publisher=KLM |date=15 October 2014 |access-date=15 October 2014 |archive-date=7 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190107045913/https://news.klm.com/en/pieter-elbers-appointed-president-and-ceo-of-klm-replacing-camiel-eurlings/%20 |url-status=live }}</ref> KLM received the award for "Best Airline Staff Service" in Europe at the World Airline Awards 2013. This award represents the rating for an airline's performance across both airport staff and cabin staff combined.<ref>{{cite web |title=The Best Airline Staff Service in Europe |url=http://www.worldairlineawards.com/Awards_2013/svcexceurope.htm |publisher=Skytrax |access-date=22 June 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130802030713/http://www.worldairlineawards.com/awards_2013/svcexceurope.htm |archive-date=2 August 2013}}</ref> It is the second consecutive year that KLM won this award; in 2012 it was awarded this title as well.<ref>{{cite web|title=KLM Royal Dutch Airlines wins award for the 2012 Best Airline Staff Service in Europe |url=http://www.worldairlineawards.com/Awards_2012/svcexceurope.htm |publisher=Skytrax |access-date=22 June 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120715180312/http://www.worldairlineawards.com/Awards_2012/svcexceurope.htm |archive-date=15 July 2012}}</ref> On 19 June 2012, KLM made the first transatlantic flight fueled partly by sustainable biofuels to [[Rio de Janeiro]]. This was the longest distance any aircraft had flown on biofuels.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.klmtakescare.com/en/content/biofuel-flight-to-rio |title=Biofuel flight to Rio |publisher=Klmtakescare.com |access-date=29 November 2012 |archive-date=25 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120625035422/http://klmtakescare.com/en/content/biofuel-flight-to-rio |url-status=live }}</ref>

In 2019, KLM celebrated its centennial, as it was founded in 1919. Since it is the oldest airline still operating under its original name, it was the first airline to achieve this feat.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.id-international.eu/klm-turns-100-one-of-the-oldest-airlines-in-the-world/#:~:text=The%20Dutch%20airline%20KLM%20celebrates,skies%20on%2017%20May%201920. |title=KLM turns 100 — one of the oldest airlines in the world! |date=9 October 2019 |access-date=9 October 2020 |archive-date=3 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230603103444/https://www.id-international.eu/klm-turns-100-one-of-the-oldest-airlines-in-the-world/#:~:text=The%20Dutch%20airline%20KLM%20celebrates,skies%20on%2017%20May%201920. |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== 2020s ===
Being heavily affected by the [[COVID-19 pandemic]], KLM cut at least 6,000 jobs in total. It also said that the decision of the government to have all the passengers and crew COVID-19 tested before flying will have an impact on its flights.<ref>{{cite web|date=2021-01-21|title=KLM to cut 1,000 more jobs, says mandatory COVID-19 testing will ground planes|url=https://arab.news/crhxv|access-date=2021-01-21|website=Arab News|language=en}}</ref> On 16 December 2021, Air France-KLM announced an order for 100 [[Airbus A320neo family|Airbus A320neos]] to be divided between Transavia and KLM.<ref name="A32N">{{cite web |date=16 December 2021 |title=Air France-KLM orders 100 Airbus A320neo family aircraft |url=https://www.airfranceklm.com/en/air-france-klm-orders-100-airbus-a320neo-family-aircraft-purchase-rights-additional-60-aircraft-klm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240219102344/https://www.airfranceklm.com/en/air-france-klm-orders-100-airbus-a320neo-family-aircraft-purchase-rights-additional-60-aircraft-klm |archive-date=19 February 2024 |access-date=6 May 2024 |website=airfranceklm.com |publisher=[[Air France-KLM]] |language=English}}</ref> In July 2022, KLM was forced to cut their summer schedule due to disruption at airports across Europe.<ref>{{Cite web |last=McMinn |first=Josh |date=2022-07-11 |title=KLM to cut down summer schedule |url=https://travelradar.aero/klm-cut-down-summer-schedule/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220711214800/https://travelradar.aero/klm-to-cut-down-summer-schedule/ |archive-date=11 July 2022 |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=Travel Radar}}</ref>{{Better source needed|date=April 2024|reason=[[WP:Simple Flying]] is unreliable}}