KLM, a major foreign network carrier, is expanding its operations with a significant increase in its service to UK airports. Starting March 30, 2025, the airline will operate flights from 18 UK airports, adding Exeter to its network for the first time. In collaboration with regional partner Cityhopper, KLM will connect Exeter with Amsterdam using Embraer aircraft. The service will depart Amsterdam at 16:15 and reach Devon at 16:50. Return flights from Devon will leave at 17:20, landing back in Amsterdam at 19:50.
This new connection provides vital global travel options for the Devon area while facilitating Dutch tourism to the southwest of England. The introduction follows the cessation of Exeter's link with Schiphol Airport in 2020, when Flybe removed it from their schedule.
KLM anticipates an average of 66 daily takeoffs to the UK in 2025, with peak departures reaching up to 71 flights. Although this is not a record for KLM—77 flights were achieved in 2017—it is the highest since last year. The airline has scaled back services on nine UK routes, offsetting increased connectivity like the addition of Exeter and more frequent Belfast City flights. The average seats per flight are expected to rise to 127, nearing their highest average of 128 set in 2022.