KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has revealed that its first Airbus A350 will be named The Night Watch, after the world-famous painting by Dutch artist Rembrandt van Rijn. The announcement marks the beginning of a new naming tradition for the airline’s incoming Airbus A350 fleet, which will draw inspiration from iconic Dutch works of art.
Dutch Heritage Takes Flight
The aircraft, currently undergoing final preparations in Toulouse, is expected to join KLM’s fleet at the end of August. It is scheduled to enter commercial service in September, with Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) set to become the inaugural destination for the carrier’s newest long-haul aircraft type.
KLM said the Airbus A350 naming theme reflects the airline’s Dutch identity and heritage. The first aircraft has been named after The Night Watch, one of the Netherlands’ most celebrated paintings, which is displayed at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.
According to the airline, the artwork was chosen because of its global recognition and strong connection to Dutch culture. Visitors from around the world travel to see the masterpiece, making it a fitting ambassador for KLM’s newest flagship aircraft.
The airline plans to continue the theme across its future Airbus A350 fleet, with additional aircraft expected to be named after other famous Dutch artworks. The initiative combines KLM’s aviation heritage with some of the country’s most recognisable cultural treasures.
Airbus A350 Set for Toronto Debut
The Airbus A350 forms a key part of KLM’s long-term fleet renewal programme. The airline is expected to receive 22 Airbus A350-900 aircraft over the coming years as it modernises its long-haul fleet, replacing older Airbus A330s and Boeing 777s. The aircraft offer improved fuel efficiency, lower noise levels, and reduced emissions compared with previous-generation widebody jets.
KLM’s A350-900s will feature 331 seats, including 34 World Business Class seats, 26 Premium Comfort seats, and 271 Economy Class seats. However, certification delays affecting the airline’s World Business Class product mean the first two aircraft are expected to enter service without the premium cabin initially available to passengers. Premium Comfort and Economy Class will still be offered from launch.
The airline plans to deploy the aircraft on its first commercial service in September, with Toronto becoming the first destination to welcome KLM‘s Airbus A350. The route will provide travellers with the first opportunity to experience the airline’s newest long-haul aircraft.
The arrival of the A350 represents a significant milestone for KLM as it continues investing in fleet modernisation while showcasing Dutch culture through its aircraft branding. Alongside the A350, the carrier is also introducing Airbus A321neo aircraft and expanding other modern fleet types as part of a wider fleet renewal programme.
What do you think of KLM’s decision to name its Airbus A350 fleet after Dutch masterpieces? Let us know in the comments below.
