KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has named its first Airbus A350 after Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn’s painting masterpiece ‘The Night Watch’, kicking off a new aircraft naming theme.
On June 15, 2026, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines announced its future Airbus A350 fleet will all be given names inspired by famous Dutch works of art.
“For the Airbus A350 fleet, KLM has chosen to name its aircraft after iconic Dutch artworks. The Night Watch by Rembrandt van Rijn is one of the Netherlands’ most celebrated paintings and is arguably the country’s best-known work of art,” KLM said.
Completed in 1642, Rembrandt’s The Night Watch’ is one of the most celebrated pieces of Dutch artwork in the world and the most renowned of the Dutch Golden Age paintings.
Officially, the painting is called ‘Militia Company of District II under the Command of Captain Frans Banninck Cocq’.
“Visitors from around the world travel to the Rijksmuseum to see it. The first aircraft therefore carries a name that is deeply rooted in Dutch culture and instantly recognizable around the globe,” KLM added.
The Airbus A350 is part of KLM’s ongoing fleet renewal, with the first widebody scheduled to join the carrier in August 2026.
According to the airline, the first A350 has now been painted at the Airbus facility in Toulouse, and over the coming months will undergo final checks before being delivered to KLM.
The aircraft is scheduled to operate its first passenger flight in September 2026, with Toronto as its inaugural destination.
KLM’s new A350-900s features a total of 331 seats: 34 seats in business class, 26 seats in premium economy, and 271 seats in economy.
Business class seats problem
KLM also confirmed on June 15, 2026, that due to a “revised interpretation of regulatory requirements” by the aviation authorities, certification of its World Business Class seats has not yet been completed.
As a result, these seats will not be available when the first two aircraft enter service.
“The seat manufacturer is working hard to complete the certification process as quickly as possible and make this cabin class available to customers at the earliest opportunity. Premium Comfort, which offers additional legroom, enhanced comfort, and a dedicated onboard dining experience, will be available from day one,” KLM said