KLM expands China Services as demand between Europe and China continues to rise
Dutch carrier KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is increasing its capacity to China during the 2026 summer season, reflecting growing confidence in the recovery of the China-Europe aviation market and strengthening travel demand between the two regions.
According to Air France-KLM Group, the airline group will operate a total of 44 weekly passenger flights from four Greater China gateways—Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Taipei—during the 2026 summer-autumn schedule, connecting travelers through its hubs at Amsterdam Schiphol and Paris Charles de Gaulle. The expansion forms part of a broader trend among European carriers that are increasing services to China despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainties and operational challenges.
Industry data shows that direct flights between China and Europe are expected to increase significantly during the summer of 2026. Monthly flights are projected to rise from approximately 3,000 in May to more than 4,150 in August. This represents a substantial increase compared with August 2025, when around 3,393 direct flights were operated between China and Europe. Peak summer capacity is expected to be roughly 22% higher than last year.
Several factors explain KLM's renewed confidence in the Chinese market.
Business travel between Europe and China continues to recover as companies rebuild commercial ties after several years of disruption. While virtual meetings remain important, sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, engineering, chemicals, and technology still rely heavily on face-to-face engagement.
Tourism demand is also strengthening in both directions. Chinese outbound travel has continued its recovery, while European travelers are increasingly returning to China as visa procedures have become simpler and international connectivity improves. Amsterdam Schiphol also remains one of Europe's most important transfer hubs, allowing KLM to funnel passengers from across Europe onto China-bound flights.
The broader China-Europe aviation market has shown sustained momentum. Eurocontrol data indicates that Europe-China air traffic in 2025 was already approximately 20% higher than in 2024, and the recovery has continued into 2026. Airlines are responding to this growth by restoring frequencies and rebuilding networks that were significantly reduced during the pandemic years.
For Dutch businesses, KLM's expanded schedule provides more than just additional travel options. Improved connectivity facilitates trade, investment, supply-chain management, and business cooperation between the Netherlands and China. As economic ties remain extensive, reliable air links continue to play a critical role in supporting commercial exchange.
The increase in KLM's China operations therefore reflects a broader reality: Demand for travel between Europe and China remains resilient and airlines are increasingly betting that the long-term opportunities in the market outweigh the short-term obstacles. KLM's latest expansion shows that confidence in the China-Europe corridor is continuing to grow.