KLM uk is reorganising its network and fleet deployment as it prepares to take on European rivals with a low-cost division.
The London Stansted-based subsidiary of Dutch carrier KLM says it will begin dropping six domestic and international routes from September, to enable it to boost capacity on services to KLM's Amsterdam hub by 12%. Flights between Scotland and the Dutch capital will increase by 33%, as the airline repositions itself mainly as a a business passenger carrier.
The fleet restructuring will see its nine Fokker 50s and 17 Fokker 100s allocated exclusively to Amsterdam services, while 10 BAe 146s will be deployed on point-to-point services into Stansted. The airline's five ATR 72s, delivered last year, will be disposed of.
Plans for the low-cost division are sketchy, with the airline confirming only that a study is under way. KLM uk is facing growing competition on its doorstep from Stansted-based low-cost carriers Ryanair and British Airways subsidiary Go, as well as easyJet at nearby Luton.
A timetable and fleet structure for the new operation has not been revealed, but is likely to include larger aircraft such as Boeing 737-300/400s or Airbus A320s. The former would be favoured, as it would provide commonality with its parent which operates a large number of 737s, and could be a source for the aircraft.
Source: Flight International
