KLM’s 787 Dreamliner Fleet Now Complete
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- 3 min read
Published on: 20 February 2026
Written by: Shreya Majumder
The milestone represents more than a fleet expansion. It reflects over a decade of steady transformation, positioning the Dutch carrier with one of the most modern widebody fleets in European aviation.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has officially completed one of the most significant fleet modernisation programmes in its recent history with the arrival of its final Boeing 787 Dreamliner, named “Krokus.” The delivery brings the airline’s total Dreamliner fleet to 28 aircraft, reinforcing its long-term strategy focused on operational efficiency, passenger comfort, and sustainable long-haul travel.
KLM’s Dreamliner journey began more than ten years ago with the introduction of its first Boeing 787-9, named “Zonnebloem.” Since then, the airline has gradually built a carefully structured fleet designed to optimise long-haul network performance while improving fuel efficiency and onboard experience.
Today, the fully integrated Dreamliner fleet consists of 13 Boeing 787-9 aircraft and 15 Boeing 787-10 aircraft, forming a unified platform for intercontinental operations. The gradual rollout allowed KLM to align aircraft deliveries with route planning, operational demands, and evolving passenger expectations.
The Boeing 787-10, the largest and highest-capacity variant in the family, plays a particularly strategic role. KLM introduced its first 787-10, “Oranjebloesem,” in 2019, just 100 days before the airline celebrated its centenary. The timing symbolised a bridge between KLM’s century-long heritage and its future-focused vision for global aviation.
At the core of KLM’s investment in the Boeing 787 program is a clear objective: delivering a superior long-haul passenger experience without compromising operational performance and efficiency.
The 787-10 offers several design features intended to improve comfort during long-duration flights. The aircraft is known for its intelligent cabin architecture, larger signature Dreamliner windows, and a more spacious interior layout. Together, these elements create a greater sense of openness and well-being onboard.
These enhancements align with a broader industry shift toward passenger-centric aircraft design, where comfort, lighting, and cabin environment are increasingly viewed as essential components of airline competitiveness.
The Dreamliner’s symbolic value for KLM extends beyond operational performance. Since 2016, a scale model of the aircraft has been displayed at Madurodam, the Dutch miniature park dedicated to showcasing national landmarks, a subtle but meaningful reflection of the aircraft’s importance within the country’s aviation narrative.
With the delivery of “Krokus,” KLM now operates a fully modernised Dreamliner fleet designed to serve global routes for decades to come. The investment strengthens the airline’s long-haul capabilities while supporting efficiency gains and evolving passenger expectations in an increasingly competitive international market.
Key Facts
• KLM’s Dreamliner fleet now totals 28 aircraft.
• The fleet consists of 13 Boeing 787-9 and 15 Boeing 787-10 aircraft.
• The first 787-10 joined the fleet in 2019, shortly before KLM’s centenary.
• The 787 programme supports KLM’s long-term efficiency and passenger experience strategy.
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Author: Shreya Majumder Aviation staffing and consultancy insights LinkedIn
