But according to Rintel, this means KLM's international network is “collapsing”. She stated that the association's network contributes significantly to the Netherlands' attractiveness for international business.
“It's easy to say that one in three flights could be cancelled,” said Buitenhof's Rintel. “But I can't run a company based on half-hearted stories. The economic role that KLM plays is very important. We must maintain that.”
This week, the House of Representatives will also discuss the shrinkage of Schiphol Airport. The government temporarily suspended the plan to limit the number of flights to 460,000 this summer in November. Outgoing Minister Mark Harpers (Infrastructure) confirms that Schiphol will have to downsize in the long term to protect nature, climate and living environment. But he pointed out that the plan to start doing so as early as 2024 faces many legal objections.
“Deflation should not be an end in itself,” Rentel said. According to her, the goal is to reduce noise pollution and carbon dioxide emissions. Therefore, KLM is working to renew its fleet with cleaner, more economical and quieter aircraft. This renovation at KLM should be completed in the coming years, according to the CEO. “Our role is to make things more sustainable.”
Further advice from the Solicitor General of the Supreme Court was published on Friday. It stipulates that the government may not limit the number of flights at Schiphol without European permission.
