Why does KLM stand for?

Come fly with us to discover stories and pictures from aviation history. KLM stands for 'Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij', literally translated as 'Royal Aviation Company'. Despite having merged with Air France in 2004, KLM is still seen as a truly Dutch icon.



KLM stands for Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij, which translates from Dutch to "Royal Aviation Company." Founded on October 7, 1919, it holds the prestigious title of being the world's oldest airline still operating under its original name. The "Royal" (Koninklijke) predicate was granted by Queen Wilhelmina even before the company was officially established, recognizing the importance of civil aviation to the Netherlands. KLM's first flight took place in 1920 between London and Amsterdam. In 2004, the airline merged with Air France to form the Air France-KLM Group, though both carriers maintain their distinct brand identities and hubs. In 2026, KLM continues to use its iconic blue livery and the "Flying Dutchman" nickname, serving over 160 destinations globally from its primary hub at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.

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Come fly with us to discover stories and pictures from aviation history. KLM stands for 'Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij', literally translated as 'Royal Aviation Company'. Despite having merged with Air France in 2004, KLM is still seen as a truly Dutch icon.

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KLM stands for 'Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij', literally translated as 'Royal Aviation Company'. Despite having merged with Air France in 2004, KLM is still seen as a truly Dutch icon. RELATED: Centenary Celebrations: eight firms that are 100 years old in 2019.

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KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is Certified as a 4-Star Airline for the quality of its airport and onboard product and staff service. Product rating includes seats, amenities, food & beverages, IFE, cleanliness etc, and service rating is for both cabin staff and ground staff.

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KLM is a Dutch carrier. Frequent travelers give the airline an average rating of 7.4/10. This is above the general average .

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Even today, KLM's transatlantic network is of major importance. Back in 1946, KLM was the first European airline to operate flights between the European Continent and America.

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KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, legally Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij N.V. (['ko?n??kl?k? 'l?xtva?rt 'ma?tsx?p?i? ??n've?], lit. 'Royal Aviation Company Plc. '), is the flag carrier of the Netherlands. KLM is headquartered in Amstelveen, with its hub at nearby Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.

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KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is Certified as a 4-Star Airline for the quality of its airport and onboard product and staff service.

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While KLM has already raised its prices this year after fuel prices rose significantly in the spring, the airline's new chief has explained that if Schiphol doesn't work fast to improve the situation and hire new workers, more price hikes will be inevitable in the new year.

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What to expect when flying KLM premium economy. This is what you'll get when you book a premium economy ticket on KLM: More comfortable seating. Premium economy seats are more comfortable than economy seats and feature additional legroom, 39 inches versus 31 inches and a deeper recline, 8 inches versus 5 inches.

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If flying direct without a transfer, I'd lean towards Air France for its comfort, superior amenities, and marginally better food compared to KLM.

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KLM does not offer a first class cabin. KLM World Business Class aboard an intercontinental flight is the highest class you'll find with this airline.

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