Riyadh Air and Air France-KLM have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a framework for strategic cooperation. The agreement aims to enhance travel options for passengers traveling between Saudi Arabia and Europe, as well as other global destinations served by the two carriers.
Air France-KLM CEO Benjamin Smith has publicly confirmed that the group is interested in acquiring Air Europa, the Spanish carrier, as part of its ongoing strategic expansion in the European aviation sector. However, no additional details or financial terms have been disclosed at this stage.
Air France-KLM has appointed Florence Parly as the new Chair of the Board of Directors for the airline group, marking a notable leadership transition at one of Europe’s largest airline conglomerates. The appointment reflects the company’s continued focus on strategic governance and sustainable growth.
Air France-KLM has released its financial results for the first quarter of 2025, revealing a net loss of US$283.6 million, despite an encouraging 7.7% increase in revenues, which totaled US$8.2 billion. The group’s liquidity position remains strong, with US$10.5 billion in available cash, providing resilience amid fluctuating operating conditions.
Air Europa, the Spanish carrier currently undergoing a privatization and acquisition process, is facing increased uncertainty in its sale as the airline evaluates underwhelming offers from major European airline groups. Bids submitted by both Lufthansa (Germany) and Air France-KLM are reportedly below expectations, casting doubt over the timing and structure of a potential transaction.
Transavia, the Dutch low-cost subsidiary of the Air France-KLM Group, has expanded its fleet with the delivery of one Airbus A321neo, bearing serial number 12451. The aircraft is powered by LEAP-1A32 engines, supplied by CFM International, and marks another step in the airline’s transition to a more fuel-efficient, next-generation fleet.
Air France-KLM is actively pursuing expansion of its strategic holdings, with CEO Ben Smith confirming that the group is in discussions to take a stake in Air Europa of Spain. Additionally, the airline is looking to boost its existing share in SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) of Sweden to a majority ownership.
Air France-KLM has revised its Airbus A350F freighter order, reducing the total from eight to six aircraft as part of an updated fleet strategy. The adjusted order will see the aircraft split between Air France and Martinair, optimizing the group’s cargo operations while aligning with evolving market demand and operational efficiency goals.
Air France-KLM has made a $326.8 million bid to acquire a 51% stake in Air Europa, a strategic move that would strengthen its presence in Spain and enhance its long-haul connectivity to Latin America.
Air France-KLM, the Franco-Dutch airline group, reported a 6.4% increase in fourth-quarter (4Q) 2024 revenues, reaching US$8.4 billion. Despite this revenue growth, the group recorded a net loss of US$22.4 million for the quarter. For the full year 2024, Air France-KLM achieved a 4.8% rise in revenues, totaling US$33.7 billion, with a net income of US$523.5 million. As of December 31, 2024, the group’s cash position stood at US$10…
