Air France-KLM is increasing cooperation among its airlines to address operational challenges and improve efficiency. Recent initiatives include Air France pilots operating KLM flights between Amsterdam and New York for the first time in the Group’s history. These flights, running from July 16 to October 26, 2025, are operated on KLM Boeing 777 aircraft with KLM cabin crew onboard. The move aims to help KLM manage a temporary shortage of qualified Boeing 777 crews during the busy summer period.
The project was completed within three months by the Group Transformation Division in partnership with various teams across both airlines. Approximately 200 employees from departments such as flight operations, safety, maintenance, ground handling, IT, human resources, and legal affairs contributed to the initiative. The process included obtaining regulatory approval from Dutch and French authorities, working with pilot and cabin crew unions, adapting documentation and IT systems, establishing joint protocols, and providing specialized training.
Other examples of operational collaboration include KLM Cityhopper using Hop! to operate three Embraer E190s starting with the winter 2025 schedule. Hop! already operates the Nantes–Amsterdam route for KLM Cityhopper and may expand support if needed.
KLM is also preparing for its first Airbus A350 deliveries in 2026 by implementing a joint pilot training program with Air France. Starting September 2025, KLM pilots with Airbus experience will fly A350s operated by Air France under Air France instructors’ supervision to gain necessary qualifications while supporting ongoing operations.
Shared digital tools are another focus area. A new joint flight dispatch system is being introduced for Air France, KLM, and Transavia along with a shared platform for flight schedules and operational updates. This aims to standardize procedures across carriers and increase responsiveness during irregular operations while reducing duplication of efforts.
Additionally, all Group airlines now use the SARA FDM (Flight Data Monitoring) tool to consolidate safety data into common dashboards for improved risk analysis.
According to the company: “Together, these projects reflect a pragmatic and purposeful approach: designing solutions that are efficient, replicable, and adapted to operational realities. They also signal a broader force within the Group — expanding an existing model of collaboration that leverages internal complementarities and shared responsibility.”
“As the aviation industry continues to evolve, these synergies are positioning Air France-KLM to respond with agility and confidence. By pooling expertise, reallocating resources when necessary, and investing in common systems, the Group is reinforcing each of its airlines while reinforcing collective performance. In every area of operations, these initiatives confirm a clear truth: as a group, Air France-KLM is stronger than the sum of its parts.”
Air France-KLM has also announced plans to increase its stake in SAS’s share capital from 19.9% currently up to 60.5% through acquiring additional shares previously held by other investors.
