KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, known simply as KLM, is the oldest airline in the world, still operating under its original name. The airline was founded on October 7, 1919, by a group of Dutch businessmen and aviators led by Albert Plesman. Its first flight was from Amsterdam to London on May 17, 1920.
In the 1920s, KLM expanded its route network to include destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia). The airline also played a significant role in developing the aircraft industry, testing and helping to improve early airliners such as the Fokker F.III and the Douglas DC-2.
During World War II, KLM's operations were suspended, and its aircraft were requisitioned by the Dutch government in exile. After the war, the airline resumed its services, focusing on rebuilding its route network and modernizing its fleet. In the 1950s and 1960s, KLM introduced the Boeing 707 and Douglas DC-8 jetliners, which enabled it to expand its long-haul services to destinations in North and South America.
In the 1970s and 1980s, KLM continued to grow, launching new routes to Asia, Africa, and Australia. The airline also introduced new aircraft, such as the Boeing 747 and the McDonnell Douglas MD-11. In 1991, KLM became the first airline to introduce a frequent flyer program, which was later named Flying Blue.
In 2004, KLM merged with Air France to form the Air France-KLM Group, now one of the largest airline groups in the world. KLM continues to operate as a separate brand within the group, with its own fleet, route network, and corporate identity. In recent years, KLM has focused on sustainability, introducing measures to reduce its environmental impact and developing new technologies such as sustainable aviation fuel. Today, KLM serves more than 170 destinations worldwide and operates a fleet of over 115 aircraft.