Air TransportKLM retires first Boeing 737-800 as A321neo fleet grows
KLM has removed its first Boeing 737-800 from service, with aircraft PH-BXK departing for its final flight to Twente Airport on November 04 for dismantling and recycling by AELS.
The move forms part of KLM’s €7 billion investment in fleet renewal, which will see the airline gradually replace its Boeing 737 fleet with Airbus A321neo aircraft.
KLM Engineering & Maintenance removed the engines and auxiliary power unit from PH-BXK for reuse within KLM’s own fleet. Additional components will be repurposed by other operators or recycled, in line with industry best practices for asset recovery.
A second Boeing 737-800 is scheduled to undergo the same process in January 2026, as KLM continues the phased withdrawal of the type.
The airline’s current plan includes the introduction of Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft for short- and medium-haul services, as well as the E195-E2 with its Cityhopper subsidiary.
On the long-haul network, KLM will add four Boeing 787-10s by early 2026 to further modernize its intercontinental fleet. An Airbus A350-900 is set to join the widebody fleet next year, replacing older Boeing 777s and A330s, while three A350Fs have been ordered to update cargo operations and retire remaining 747 freighters.
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