From June 16 to 22, 2025, the Air France-KLM Group participated in the Paris Air Show at Le Bourget. This event was an opportunity for the group to demonstrate its industrial expertise and commitment to decarbonizing air transport. The show also highlighted the importance of their activities in the French, Dutch, and European economies.
A significant announcement was made with the launch of “Connect France,” a strategic alliance aimed at strengthening French connectivity. President Emmanuel Macron attended this launch alongside Benjamin Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM Group, and Philippe Pascal, Chairman and CEO of Groupe ADP. Smith stated: “With Connect France, we are formalizing this essential approach to better face competition from non-European players who have long understood the importance of air transport for a nation’s global influence and economy.”
The group’s focus on sustainability was evident through several initiatives. Anne Rigail, CEO of Air France, reiterated their four-pillar decarbonization strategy during a keynote address at the Paris Air Lab. An agreement with Airbus was signed to support sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production as part of the Air France-KLM “Corporate SAF” program.
Additionally, Air France signed an SAF component contract with the French government and industry partners. Four main objectives were outlined: setting national SAF production targets for 2030 and beyond; developing competitive financing models; supporting industrialization of SAF projects; and launching advanced bioSAF and eSAF production projects before 2030.
At the Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance booth, several agreements were announced. AFI KLM E&M signed a strategic agreement with Saudia Group for engine maintenance. EPCOR extended cooperation with Kuwait Airways for APU support on Boeing 777 aircraft. SalamAir entrusted AFI KLM E&M with LEAP-1A engine support.
The MRO Lab showcased innovations in predictive maintenance, 3D printing, augmented reality, among others.
During the final days open to public visitors from June 20 to 22, attendees could learn about career opportunities within Air France-KLM Group from Human Resources teams present on-site.
Transavia continues its growth as part of Air France-KLM’s efforts towards enhancing competitiveness and global influence while pursuing decarbonization goals alongside Airbus.
