KLM Royal Dutch Airlines signs for six Airbus A330-200 plus purchase-rights

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has signed a contract with Airbus for the purchase of six A330-200s and further 18 purchase-rights of this type herewith formalizing an earlier commitment. Deliveries for the aircraft are scheduled to begin in April 2005. In KLM's layout the aircraft will seat around 250 passengers in a comfortable two-class-cabin. The engine selection has yet to be made.

Making the most of the A330-200's impressive versatility, KLM will operate the aircraft from its hub in Amsterdam on its international route network. The A330-200's flexibility and efficiency stem from its state-of-the-art technology, optimised wing design and the lowest fuel burn in its class. Together with low noise and emissions levels, these features also contribute to environmentally friendly operations.

Airbus' A330-200 is renowned for being the most efficient aircraft in its class, combining the lowest operating costs with highly efficient cargo capabilities that enhance airline profitability through freight operations. The A330-200 also offers the most spacious cabin of any widebody jet in its category. Wider seats and wider aisles create a more enjoyable seating arrangement for passengers and advanced cabin systems help to provide a comfortable atmosphere that reflects the commitment to passenger comfort found in all Airbus aircraft.

"This contract marks an important breakthrough for Airbus, since KLM was one of the major European airlines not yet operating Airbus' modern aircraft family," said Noël Forgeard, Airbus President and Chief Executive Officer. "This new mark of confidence in the A330-200 clearly underscores the A330's leadership in its segment," he added.

KLM's selection of the A330 further reinforces the remarkable success of the A330/A340 Family among airlines worldwide. The A330/A340 Family offers Airbus' unique operational commonality, allowing airlines to operate an entire family of aircraft from between 250 right up to 380 seats with unbeatable economics.

The A330/A340 Family has booked some 750 total orders from more than 60 customers to date and is cornering 75 per cent of the market against its direct competitors so far in 2002.

A leading aircraft manufacturer with the most modern and comprehensive product line on the market, Airbus is a global company with design and manufacturing facilities in France, Germany, the UK, and Spain as well as subsidiaries in the U.S., China and Japan. Headquartered in Toulouse, France, Airbus is an EADS joint Company with BAE SYSTEMS.