KLM has begun phasing out its Boeing 737-800 fleet, with the first aircraft — registration PH-BXK — completing its final flight before being sent for dismantling and recycling.
After operating its last passenger service into Amsterdam Schiphol, the aircraft made a short ferry flight to Twente Airport, where it was transferred to AELS, a specialist in end-of-life aircraft teardown and recycling. KLM Engineering & Maintenance removed the engines and auxiliary power unit for reuse within the carrier’s own fleet, while remaining components will be repurposed by AELS or recycled.
The retirement marks a significant step in KLM’s €7 billion fleet renewal programme, which will see its European Boeing 737 fleet replaced by the Airbus A321neo. The new aircraft offer reduced fuel burn, lower CO? emissions and noticeably quieter operations. A second 737-800 is scheduled to leave the fleet in January 2026, also destined for dismantling at Twente.
KLM is renewing its fleet across all segments. On short-haul routes, the A320neo and A321neo will replace 737 models, while KLM Cityhopper continues transitioning to the Embraer E195-E2. On long-haul, four Boeing 787-10s have recently joined the fleet, with the final delivery due in early 2026. The airline will also introduce the Airbus A350-900 next year, replacing older Boeing 777s and A330s. In the cargo division, three A350F freighters are on order to phase out the remaining 747 cargo aircraft.