KLM Marks 60 Years of Birmingham–Amsterdam Connectivity
Credit: Stewart Writtle
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is celebrating 60 years of operations between Birmingham Airport (BHX) and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS).
First launched in 1966, the Birmingham–Amsterdam service has developed into an important European hub connection, supporting business, leisure, and Visiting Friends and Relatives (VFR) traffic across the Midlands.
Today, KLM operates up to five daily flights between Birmingham and Amsterdam, providing passengers with access to more than 160 destinations worldwide through its Schiphol hub. The frequency and extensive onward connectivity make Amsterdam an important gateway for long-haul travel from Birmingham.
Booking data from January to August 2026 demonstrates the route's role in facilitating international passenger flows. Beyond the Netherlands, key European markets include Germany, Denmark, and Sweden, while Thailand, South Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana feature among the most popular long-haul destinations booked by passengers travelling from the Midlands.
The service also supports inbound connectivity, facilitating travel to Birmingham and the wider Midlands from international markets. Key inbound markets include Germany, Denmark, and Sweden, alongside significant long-haul demand from the United States, Canada, Ghana, and Nigeria.
The route's sustained operation reflects the strength of the Midlands catchment area and the importance of hub connectivity in supporting international travel demand.
Jerome Salemi, General Manager Air France-KLM UK & Ireland, said:
"This significant milestone reflects our long-standing commitment to the Midlands. We are proud to have played a part in connecting the region with the rest of the world, whether travelling for business, exploring new destinations or visiting loved ones. Birmingham remains a key element of our UK network, and we look forward to welcoming customers on board for many years to come."
Andrew Pelham, Head of Airline Relations at Birmingham Airport, said:
“It is fantastic to be celebrating 60 years of partnership with KLM. The airline has provided Midlands passengers with a direct gateway to Amsterdam and onward travel through its extensive worldwide network of connections. We look forward to building on that success for many years to come.”