air-cargo

KLM Chief Cites 18-Month A350F Delay, Warns of Hub Operations Impact

KLM Chief Executive Marjan Rintel has raised concerns about postponements in the Airbus A350 freighter program, citing an 18-month delay that threatens operations at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport. The aircraft's entry into service has shifted from 2026 to 2027, forcing the carrier to extend use of aging Boeing 747-400 freighters amid strict noise and capacity constraints at its main hub. Air France-KLM initially ordered eight A350F aircraft—four each for Air France and Martinair—but reduced the order to six units in March 2025 following production setbacks. The group cited capital expenditure considerations and fleet portfolio optimization in its decision. The A350F freighters will eventually replace Air France's 777-200F aircraft and KLM/Martinair's 747-400F fleet. AFKMP Cargo presently operates two 777Fs and four 747-400Fs.