AMSTERDAM Schiphol slot constraints may force klm Royal Dutch Airlines to reduce its European route network by 17 daily flights for the 2024 summer season, a problem for the Dutch flag carrier that relies heavily on feeder flights to support its long-haul operations, says CEO Marjan Rintel.
In an interview with Bloomberg, Ms Rintel also expressed concern about possible retaliatory measures against KLM if the Dutch government goes ahead with its plan to cut capacity at Schiphol from 500,000 to 440,000 flights annually.
KLM, along with international and European airline representative bodies, is contesting the capacity cuts on competitive grounds. It proposes newer aircraft and smarter flight procedures and schedules, which would mean retaining its network while reducing environmental pollution, reports Switzerland's ch-aviation.
The Dutch Cabinet is to make a final decision on the plan - dubbed a temporary experimental scheme - once it has received feedback from the European Commission on whether it aligns with EU requirements for a balanced approach to noise and carbon emission mitigation. Despite strong opposition from the international airline industry, legal attempts to thwart the plan have been unsuccessful.
Responding to JetBlue Airways seeking retaliatory measures against KLM from the US government, Ms Rintel said such demands by other airlines were a significant threat to KLM's international operation and partnerships. 'JetBlue will not be the only one,' she said. 'There will be more to follow. If you reduce slots like this, without any comprehension of international agreements then JetBlue is very offended with it and rightfully so.'
SeaNews Turkey
In an interview with Bloomberg, Ms Rintel also expressed concern about possible retaliatory measures against KLM if the Dutch government goes ahead with its plan to cut capacity at Schiphol from 500,000 to 440,000 flights annually.
KLM, along with international and European airline representative bodies, is contesting the capacity cuts on competitive grounds. It proposes newer aircraft and smarter flight procedures and schedules, which would mean retaining its network while reducing environmental pollution, reports Switzerland's ch-aviation.
The Dutch Cabinet is to make a final decision on the plan - dubbed a temporary experimental scheme - once it has received feedback from the European Commission on whether it aligns with EU requirements for a balanced approach to noise and carbon emission mitigation. Despite strong opposition from the international airline industry, legal attempts to thwart the plan have been unsuccessful.
Responding to JetBlue Airways seeking retaliatory measures against KLM from the US government, Ms Rintel said such demands by other airlines were a significant threat to KLM's international operation and partnerships. 'JetBlue will not be the only one,' she said. 'There will be more to follow. If you reduce slots like this, without any comprehension of international agreements then JetBlue is very offended with it and rightfully so.'
SeaNews Turkey