KLM Royal Dutch Airlines hosted a special gala celebration to mark its 100th anniversary. The event was attended by a large gathering of guests, including members of the diplomatic corps, the airline’s Flying Blue members, customers, travel-trade partners and staff in the region.
Held under the patronage of the Ambassador of the Netherlands to Kuwait H.E. Frans Potuyt at his residence on 24 October, the event celebrated KLM’s 100-year history of aviation innovation. On the occasion, the airline unveiled its ‘Fly Responsibly’ program — KLM’s commitment to leading the aviation industry to a sustainable future.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Potuyt provided some background of KLM’s history in the Middle East and its growth through the ages. He praised KLM for being one of the most punctual, safe and friendly airlines that tries to do the best for its passengers. He pointed out that more than being Dutch, KLM is one big international family, and it is because of people around the world that KLM is where it is today.
On 7 October, KLM officially celebrated its 100th anniversary and its unique position as the first commercial airline that is still flying under its original name. KLM is an aviation pioneer and after a century of service and network expansion from its home base in Amsterdam, the airline now serves more than 160 destinations worldwide.
Speaking at the event, the Country Manager Kuwait of Air France KLM, Rajat Kumar, said: “KLM first landed in Kuwait on 25 September, 1963. We have a lot of shared history and much in common with Kuwait such as diversity, sustainability, hospitality and innovation, respect for heritage and culture.” He pointed out, “Sustainability is firmly at the center of how we operate. Today, we celebrate our 100th anniversary but also look ahead with confidence to a sustainable future. The Kuwait event was the perfect opportunity to thank our hosts, customers, partners and staff in Kuwait, and to unveil our ‘Fly Responsibly’ program.”
