KLM Cityhopper has begun upgrading all 22 of its Embraer 195-E2 aircraft, increasing capacity and improving efficiency across the fleet. The first modified jet, now featuring four extra Economy Class seats for a total of 136, entered service on 6 December with a flight to Porto.
The cabin changes — achieved by reducing galley size and optimising catering storage — will allow the airline to carry more passengers while cutting CO? emissions per traveller by 3%. The lighter catering setup will also remove around 5 million kilograms of weight annually, saving up to 160,000 kilograms of jet fuel each year.
One aircraft will be converted every five working days, with all upgrades completed by June 2026. Jets currently stored in Twente will re-enter service with the new layout. KLM Cityhopper staff helped refine the redesign to ensure practicality for crews, and the airline says passenger comfort and catering quality will remain unchanged.