KLM Royal Dutch Airlines vs Martinair

Overview

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is the flag carrier of the Netherlands. According to Wikipedia, it was founded on 7 October 1919 and is often described as the world's oldest airline still operating under its original name. It is headquartered in Amstelveen and is part of the Air France–KLM group. KLM is a member of the SkyTeam alliance. Its subsidiaries include KLM Cityhopper, Martinair and Transavia.

Network and hubs

The hub is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. Wikipedia lists scheduled passenger and cargo services to 171 destinations, covering Europe, North and South America, Africa, the Middle East and Asia. Many passengers connect at Schiphol between European feeder routes and long-haul flights, and KLM codeshares with SkyTeam partners such as Delta.

Fleet

The KLM fleet page on Wikipedia gives a mainline fleet of about 125 aircraft (accessed September 2026); the figure excludes subsidiaries. Narrow-bodies are mostly Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft, due to be replaced by the Airbus A320neo family. Wide-bodies used on medium and long-haul routes are the Airbus A330, Boeing 777 and Boeing 787. Air France-KLM announced an order for 50 Airbus A350 aircraft in September 2023. Fleet numbers change often, so check the sources for the latest count.

On board

• Long-haul cabins are World Business Class, Premium Comfort, Economy Comfort and Economy.
• According to OneMileAtATime, Premium Comfort is on all 777s and 787s, with about 38 in of seat pitch against about 31 in in Economy.
• According to Simple Flying, the 787s have lie-flat Business Class seats in a 1-2-1 layout.
• Entertainment, Wi-Fi and meal details vary by route and fare, so check KLM before travelling.

Good to know

• Hand baggage depends on fare, according to KLM. Economy Basic fares include only a small bag (40 x 30 x 15 cm) under the seat. Light, Standard and Flex fares add a hand baggage piece (55 x 35 x 25 cm), with a combined limit of 12 kg. Business Class allows two pieces and up to 18 kg combined. Basic passengers can buy hand baggage via My Trip up to 4 hours before departure.
• The KLM Crown Lounges at Schiphol are open to Business Class passengers and to Flying Blue Gold and Platinum members, who may bring one guest. Other travellers can pay for access. KLM also has Crown Lounges in Toronto and Houston.
• The loyalty programme is Flying Blue, shared with Air France.

Global Network and Operations

Martinair, a Dutch airline with a rich heritage, operates a focused global network primarily centered on cargo transport with some charter passenger services. The airline operates a fleet specializing in wide-body freighters, serving strategic cargo routes connecting Europe with North America, the Caribbean, Africa, and Asia.
• Operates mainly from its hub at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, optimizing European and intercontinental connectivity.
• Fleet consists mainly of Boeing 747-400 freighters, providing capacity for heavy and oversized shipments.
• Charter passenger services are offered on occasion, complementing its core cargo operations.
• Part of the Air France-KLM Group, enabling integrated network advantages.

Innovation and Milestones

Since its foundation in 1958, Martinair has marked several important milestones:
• Pioneered dedicated freighter operations within the Netherlands, adapting early to market needs for specialized cargo transport.
• Transitioned to an all-cargo fleet in the 2010s to focus on long-haul freight efficiency and reliability.
• Implemented advanced cargo tracking and handling systems to improve real-time customer information and operational safety.
• Integrated sustainable aviation fuel initiatives to reduce environmental impact in line with global aviation trends.

Customer Experience and Recognition

Martinair's customer focus revolves around reliable cargo logistics, with dedicated account management and tailored solutions for various freight classes including perishables, pharmaceuticals, and oversized goods. For passenger charters, the airline ensures comfortable and efficient service with modern cabin configurations when operational.

The airline has earned a solid reputation in the cargo industry for on-time performance and safety standards, supported by compliant maintenance and operational procedures aligned with European aviation authorities.

Future Outlook

Martinair aims to strengthen its position as a leading European cargo airline by expanding its network connectivity through the Air France-KLM alliance and adopting greener technologies. Future plans include fleet modernization, increasing use of sustainable fuels, and enhancing digital solutions to improve cargo tracking and customer interaction.