The Real Reason KLM Says "GOODBYE" to 787 and turn to Airbus!

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Published 2024-06-07
The Real Reason KLM Says "GOODBYE" to 787 and turn to Airbus!
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#fligavia #boeing #airbus #aviation #boeing787
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The Real Reason KLM Says "GOODBYE" to 787 and turn to Airbus!
KLM, recognized as the world's longest-operating airline and a member of the Air France-KLM group, has announced intentions to modernize its wide-body aircraft fleet. When it came to this announcement, many thought that the airline would opt the Boeing Dreamliner 7 8 7 because it has traditionally operated a Boeing-dominated fleet since 19 69 when it received it first Boeing, which was a 7 4 7. But no, their decision turned out to be all about Airbus A3 50. So what’s behind this decision? Why is it shocking? And is there any other chance for Boeing? We’ll find out in this episode.
The Real Reason KLM Says "GOODBYE" to 787 and turn to Airbus!
In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Air France-KLM CEO Ben Smith explained that preference for the Airbus A3 50 over the Boeing 7 8 7 dash 10’s is due to its superior range. The A3 50-1000 boasts a range of 8,700 nautical miles, while the A3 50-900's range is close behind at 8,300 nautical miles. In contrast, the 7 8 7 dash 10's range is much shorter with 6,430 nautical miles. So with plans to expand in South America and South Africa, the A3 50's additional range is a strategic advantage.
The Real Reason KLM Says "GOODBYE" to 787 and turn to Airbus!
Especially given the current restrictions on European carriers flying over Russian airspace due to the conflict in Ukraine, the range is crucial for Air France-KLM. With Russia's airspace closure to European airlines, including KLM, direct flights between Europe and Asia have become complicated. These restrictions necessitate detours that add significant distance to flights. For example, a flight from London to Tokyo now takes about 13 hours and 44 minutes, nearly 2 hours longer than before, due to a detour of almost 1,800 miles to avoid Russian airspace.

All Comments (21)
  • @parmentier7457
    You forgot to mention that KLM/Transavia has also ordered 100 A321s to replace their B737 short-haul fleet. This was also surprising for everyone.
  • @N911GT2
    Happy Dutch money stays in the EU and doesn't go to Boeing!
  • @EMAFlights
    KLM are not retiring their 787 fleet. The A350's are replacing the ageing 777-200ER's and A330's across Air France & KLM.
  • @martijnb5887
    The reasons mentioned make great sense for all European and Asian airlines. Americans don't need to fly around Russia to reach Europe or east Asia, but the other reasons still apply. I expect more airlines to follow the move of the grand old lady of the airlines.
  • @TheRedSquirral
    The primary method of reducing the number of flights out of Schiphol is not by increasing aircraft size but rather by encouraging more passengers to opt for the alternative of high-speed rail. This is particularly evident in France where the Government has legislated to reduce domestic flights and using rail instead.
  • @DewittBownessg
    Boeing must address their production challenges to stay competitive.
  • @Mosesinmusic
    This video was SO informative. Excellent job. Kind regards and blessings from the Netherlands
  • @Drew-do9wx
    I have many fond memories flying KLM 747s to and from the wonderful Schiphol airport.
  • @iangill8984
    My understanding is that part of the problem for the 787-10 is that its wing is optimised for the smaller variants which hinders its performance. Interestingly, the A330neo has a brand new, customised wing thats gives an advatage when replacing older A330's. Airbus seems to have several bases covered with the A350 and A330neo.
  • @markydee48
    I'm not sure why the 787 is being mentioned here. Last I heard, the A350 order was meant to replace their 777 fleet and possibly the A330 fleet, not the 787. After all, Air France does operate both the 787 and A350 side by side. Fleet commonality between both organizations would absolutely make sense. If one looks at it, many airlines across the globe are finding out that it makes economical sense to operate both types in their fleets. It's gives them much more flexibility and offers the best product that's out there. BA, LH, Korean, etc... they all have both types in their fleet.
  • @EliasBac
    Polite way to say : Boeing got too shady and untrustworthy 😊
  • @RobertI.Curran
    KLM switching to Airbus A350 is huge! Can’t wait to see those planes in action.
  • @Jessalyn151
    The range on the A350 is a game-changer for long-haul flights. Good choice, KLM!
  • @CooperCarani
    Airbus A350's longer range makes it perfect for KLM's global routes.
  • @moussareal
    As a dutch, I'm proud of this order! don't forget about the a321s
  • @boa974
    And this how the Boeing 797 will see the light! WAKE UP CALL!