paroolNov 5, 2026, 07:06

KLM cuts 5,000 jobs and significantly downsizes fleet to stay afloat

KLM is cutting 5,000 jobs and implementing an additional 1 billion euro savings plan to restore financial stability and reach an 8 percent profit margin. The airline is restructuring its European operations, outsourcing ground handling, and shifting fleet focus toward its subsidiary KLM Cityhopper.

KLM has announced a major restructuring plan involving the loss of 5,000 jobs and significant changes to its fleet to combat ongoing financial struggles. The airline aims to cut an additional 1 billion euros annually, citing an urgent need to improve profitability and productivity by 2028. To achieve these goals, management is seeking new collective labor agreements with unions that include limited wage increases and extended working hours. Operations will see major shifts, including outsourcing ground handling for European flights and increasing the role of its subsidiary, KLM Cityhopper, to reduce costs.

Technological integration and fleet optimization are central to the strategy, with the airline accelerating the retirement of older aircraft like the Boeing 737-800 and canceling orders for smaller Airbus models. KLM also plans to utilize more artificial intelligence in customer service and focus its maintenance division on newer aircraft. These measures are designed to align the company with the financial requirements set by its parent firm, Air France-KLM, which requires a minimum profit margin of 8 percent.

Economy Business Amsterdam Netherlands

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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