- KLM Cityhopper tested initiatives on Dublin-Amsterdam route
- Electric ground equipment used at both airports
- OptiDescent technology trialled for fuel savings
- Redesigned waste trolley improves onboard recycling
- Aviation Challenge led by SkyTeam alliance
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has continued its efforts to reduce environmental impact by testing practical innovations onboard and during flight operations. KLM Cityhopper, which operates most KLM services between Dublin and Amsterdam with the Embraer 195-E2, has selected this route to trial initiatives on 30 September 2026 under The Aviation Challenge. The Aviation Challenge has been a collaboration led by the SkyTeam alliance involving airlines, suppliers, airports and ground handlers.
Ground operations testing has included use of electric equipment at Amsterdam and Dublin airports. In Dublin, KLM’s ground handling agent Swissport has tested turnaround operations using electric belt loaders, passenger steps, tugs for baggage carts and the Ground Power Unit. Flight optimisation has included OptiDescent testing on both outbound and return flights with SITA, designed to improve prediction of an aircraft’s descent profile for potential fuel and time savings.
Waste reduction initiatives have included improving onboard waste collection with a redesigned trolley featuring additional drawers for sorting recyclable materials and a new cup holder for separate collection of coffee and plastic cups. KLM has collected and recycled up to 14 types of waste on European flights. The airline has also planned a showcase flight from Amsterdam to Delhi on 28 September under The Aviation Challenge and has focused on increasing awareness of SAF throughout October.
