Phê Vé
June 17, 2026 • 3 min read
KLM is set to launch its Airbus A350 fleet in 2026, but notably, there will be no business class seats. This marks a significant step in the airline's fleet modernization efforts.
KLM Orders New Airbus A350 Aircraft
In September 2023, Air France-KLM made the decision to order up to 90 additional Airbus A350 aircraft, which includes 50 firm orders and 40 options. This decision aims to modernize the fleets of both airlines in the long term. Previously, Air France has operated the Airbus A350, while KLM has focused on replacing its wide-body fleet with Boeing 787s.
Recently, KLM announced that they will soon receive their first of at least 22 A350-900 aircraft, expected to be delivered in August 2026, with full deliveries completed by 2030. The inaugural commercial flight will take place in September, marking the first long-haul route from Amsterdam (AMS) to Toronto (YYZ).
KLM's New Airbus A350 Information
The Airbus A350 will be configured by KLM to accommodate 331 passengers, including 34 business class seats, 26 premium economy seats, 33 economy seats with extra legroom, and 238 standard economy seats. It is anticipated that the A350 will replace a significant portion of the Airbus A330 and Boeing 777 in the airline's fleet.
While the increase in capacity is a positive development, KLM has opted not to include a large business class section like Air France, which has equipped its new A350s with 48 business class seats. This indicates that the demand for business class in Amsterdam is not as high as it is in Paris.
Challenges with Business Class Seats
KLM is facing a fairly common issue in the industry. The airline has announced that due to "reinterpreting regulatory requirements from the aviation authority," the certification for the business class seats has not been completed. As a result, business class seating will not be available when the first two aircraft enter service.
✈️ Tìm chuyến bay giá tốt
Đặt vé ngay với giá ưu đãi từ các hãng hàng không
The seat manufacturer is working diligently to finalize the certification process as quickly as possible to make this cabin available to passengers. In the meantime, all other seats and cabins will be available from day one.
Features of the Seats
KLM will utilize the STELIA Aerospace OPERA seat platform in business class, a product similar to that used on Air France's new A350s. Both Air France and KLM are under the oversight of a regulatory authority within the European Union, so if one product is certified, the other is expected to be as well.
KLM has announced a naming theme for its new A350 aircraft, inspired by famous works of Dutch art. The first aircraft will be named "The Night Watch," after Rembrandt's renowned painting.
Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
When KLM officially launches A350 flights in September 2026, Vietnamese travelers can consider flying from Hanoi (HAN) or Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Amsterdam to connect to Toronto. Currently, passengers traveling from Vietnam to Amsterdam need a Schengen visa, which costs around 5-8 million VND (depending on the issuing location).
Airfare from Vietnam to Amsterdam typically ranges from 15 million to 30 million VND, depending on the booking time and airline. The time difference in Amsterdam is 6 hours behind Vietnam.
Conclusion
KLM is set to receive its first Airbus A350 in August 2026, with Toronto as the inaugural destination. While this is a positive modernization effort for the airline, it is noteworthy that business class seating has yet to be certified. Hopefully, passengers will soon experience the A350 once all seats are approved! What are your thoughts on KLM's plans for the Airbus A350?
Article sourced and edited from: One Mile at a Time
Phê Vé
Phê Vé is a leading online flight booking platform in Vietnam, providing accurate and up-to-date travel information. We are committed to delivering wonderful travel experiences with the best prices on the market.