The aviation industry has been going through a tough phase lately, with multiple airlines facing rising operating costs and making changes. Adding to the latest changes, Air France-KLM’s Dutch subsidiary, KLM, is preparing a massive restructuring that could eliminate approximately 1,000 positions in the coming years. The move is believed to be part of a broader cost-cutting strategy to reduce costs and restore profitability, which has been difficult amid rising industry expenses.
According to Reuters, on November 5, 2026, KLM announced it would cut its workforce by another 15 percent. An estimated 5,000 positions are affected by the recent round of budget cuts, outsourcing, and transfers to other companies within the Air France-KLM group.
The planned restructuring includes moving 1,250 positions at KLM Catering Service to catering partner Gategroup. Around 2000 positions, including 1,500 at the customer contact center Cygnific, will move to the wider Air France-KLM group. Additionally, 800 ground service positions are expected to be transferred to external providers.
While KLM expects to eliminate around 1000 jobs through productivity improvements over the years, the airline aims to reduce the impact on employees by offering them other roles within the group, closing some positions as employees leave, and offering voluntary departures.
KLM planning for more changes
Apart from the budget cuts, KLM has also been working on changes to its aircraft fleet and flight operations across Europe. The company has been considering operating a fleet of 185 aircraft from Boeing, Airbus, and Embraer.
They also want to focus on routes that can ultimately bring most passengers to their international network via Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, per Simple Flying. These changes are intended to help KLM increase profits, reduce operating costs, and introduce newer aircraft and better customer service.
The company has a desire to make massive profits
KLM CEO Marjan Rintel believes the aviation industry faces a growing burden from global instability, elevated fuel prices, and rising operating costs. The company aims to add €1 billion to its annual earnings to strengthen its financial position. Ultimately, it also wants to increase structural productivity by at least 8% by 2028. According to Simple Flying, Rintel, in a statement, said,
“The environment we operate in is becoming increasingly complex, with global instability, high fuel prices, and growing pressure on the industry. That’s why, at this pivotal moment for KLM, we’re taking far-reaching, sometimes painful measures.”
This strong desire is inspired by its parent company Air France-KLM’s reported third-quarter operating profit of €1.34 billion, which was higher than expected. The company aims to secure long-term success.
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