KLM has joined the A321neo family, taking delivery of its first aircraft last week. With the delivery KLM launches a refresh of its short-haul fleet, including familiar passenger experiences as well as some new ones.
I’ve been looking forward to this with great anticipation. The arrival of the first A321neo marks the start of replacing our Boeing 737 fleet. The A321neo produces less noise and CO2 and therefore contributes significantly to a cleaner, quieter future. It also offers more comfort. I am looking forward to see how our passengers will experience the new aircraft.
– Marjan Rintel, President & CEO KLM
Hybrid cabin, featuring Recaro seats
The A321neo will fly for KLM with 227 seats on board, provided by Recaro. While the premium section is a traditional “euro biz” layout, itis not just a middle seat. The front nine rows will be fitted with Recaro’s R2 seat offering increased comfort for passengers. The remaining seats on board are the R1. KLM chose a similar approach in fitting its newest Cityhopper E195-E2 aircraft.
KLM CEO Marjan Rintel shares, “The innovative R1 and R2 seats represent a significant step forward in providing a comfortable travel experience.”
Both seat types feature a backrest developed specifically for KLM, integrating a device holder directly into the seat design. All seats also include a USB-C power port.
The R1 seats also feature a larger tray table than normal, a custom design exclusive to the KLM Group (including Transavia) aircraft.
Passengers on board will also have access to inflight internet, powered by Viasat‘s Ka-band satellite constellation. This is a continuation of a longer term contract for the companies.
KLM will launch services initially to Copenhagen, Berlin, and Stockholm later this month. Paris, Prague, and Vienna will follow. The carrier expects to take delivery of three more A321neo planes this year. The planes are part of a 100 aircraft order from Airbus to refresh the short-haul fleet of KLM, Transavia, and Transavia France.
The carrier also continues its tradition of aircraft naming, with the A321neo family featuring butterflies as the theme. The names of the first four A321neo aircraft will be Swallowtail (Koninginnepage), Peach Blossom (Braamvlinder), Common Brimstone (Citroenvlinder) and Clouded Magpie (Porseleinvlinder).
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Let’s talk about the seat pitch though…
About what I’d expect flying economy in Europe.
Doesn’t mean it is good, but it is what I’d expect.
Fair, but the 227 it resembles more Wizz (which has just 2 more rows to 239 seats) and less e.g. LH which has 215. And it’s not like LH is the beacon of comfort of course.