In September 2023, Air France-KLM placed an incremental order for up to 90 Airbus A350s , including 50 firm orders and 40 options. The intent was for these planes to be used for long term fleet renewal across both carriers.

Prior to this, Air France had already been flying Airbus A350s, while KLM’s wide body fleet renewal was focused on Boeing 787s. We’ve known that KLM would soon start taking delivery of the A350, and there’s now an update, as the first A350 has just been delivered , and will be entering service in the coming weeks. However, we may have to wait quite some time to fly in certain seats.

KLM has just taken delivery of its first of at least 22 Airbus A350-900s, with all planes expected to join the fleet by 2030. The expectation is that the A350 will enter long haul service as of late October 2026, initially flying from Amsterdam (AMS) to Toronto (YYZ), followed by Montreal (YUL), Kilimanjaro (JRO), Dar es Salaam (DAR), and Zanzibar (ZNZ).

The intent is to use these planes for long haul fleet renewal, largely replacing Airbus A330s, and in the long run, some of the Boeing 777s (with the 777-200ERs leaving the fleet before the 777-300ERs, though the airline has invested nicely in the interiors of those planes ). The A350 is an incredible aircraft in terms of range, fuel efficiency, and passenger experience.

KLM always has fun with naming its planes, and the first plane is named “The Night Watch,” after the renowned painting by Rembrandt. With this aircraft, KLM is introducing a new naming theme for the A350 fleet, inspired by famous Dutch works of art. For what it’s worth, the second plane will be named “Girl with a Pearl Earring.”

Here’s what KLM CEO Marjan Rintel had to say about the A350s joining the fleet:

“We’re delighted to welcome our first A350 to Schiphol. This is an important milestone for KLM and for the Netherlands. Fleet renewal is one of the most effective ways we can make our operations cleaner, quieter, and more fuel-efficient. We already have 17 A321neos flying on our European routes, and with the arrival of the A350, we’re taking the next step in renewing our intercontinental fleet. That means more comfort for our passengers, while also reducing our impact on our surroundings.”

What can passengers expect onboard KLM’s new Airbus A350-900s? The planes feature 331 seats, including 34 business class seats, 26 premium economy seats, 33 extra legroom economy seats, and 238 standard economy seats. aeroLOPA has the seat map for the plane, so it’s worth a look.