The KLM story
KLM was founded in 1919 and is the oldest airline in the world still flying under its original name. Albert Plesman led it for decades, and in 1924 it flew the first scheduled intercontinental flight, from Amsterdam to Batavia, now Jakarta.
What makes KLM powerful
KLM's power comes from Dutch hospitality and its blue livery. Business class passengers have received miniature Delft Blue houses filled with Dutch gin since the 1950s, and collectors around the world chase every new house. Its Amsterdam Schiphol hub links Europe with the world.
KLM today
KLM merged with Air France in 2004 to form Air France-KLM but kept its own brand, management and headquarters in Amstelveen. Marjan Rintel is President and CEO.
What comes next for KLM
KLM's challenges are cost pressures, limits on flights at Schiphol and the move to cleaner aircraft and sustainable aviation fuel.
Why KLM ranks #92
Brand Positioning & Recall (68.0) and Consumer Trust & Sentiment (68.0) carry KLM's Power Score of 65.36.
Digital Presence & Financial Soundness at 56.0. What would move it: Stronger digital engagement and clearer published financial reporting at brand level.
Pillar profile
Versus its nearest rivals
5 Travel & Logistics brands are in the Europe 100. KLM is #3 in its sector.
Questions people ask
What rank is KLM in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026?
KLM ranks #92 of 100 in Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026, with a WCRC Power Score of 65.36 out of 100.
When was KLM founded and who founded it?
KLM was founded in 1919. Founder(s): Albert Plesman.
What is KLM's weakest area?
In the 2026 assessment, KLM's lowest pillar is Digital Presence & Financial Soundness at 56.0 out of 100.
Who leads KLM today?
Marjan Rintel, President and CEO. The brand is owned by Air France-KLM.
Where is KLM headquartered?
KLM is based in Amstelveen, Netherlands. Its country of origin is Netherlands.
What is KLM's revenue?
KLM Group €13.21bn revenue (FY2025, +3.9%); Air France-KLM €33.0bn, according to the company's published results.
What is a signature fact about KLM?
KLM is the oldest airline in the world still operating under its original name.
Key facts
| Brand | KLM |
|---|---|
| Company / owner | Air France-KLM |
| Headquarters | Amstelveen, Netherlands |
| Founded | 1919 |
| Founder(s) | Albert Plesman |
| Leadership | Marjan Rintel, President and CEO |
| Latest revenue | KLM Group €13.21bn revenue (FY2025, +3.9%); Air France-KLM €33.0bn Source |
| Sector | Travel & Logistics |
| Country of origin | Netherlands |
| Signature fact | KLM is the oldest airline in the world still operating under its original name. |
| Official website | klm.com |
KLM is ranked #92 in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026 (Power Score 65.36).