KLM optimises Antillean network

Effective December 1, 2002, KLM intends to enhance its network to the Dutch Antilles and Aruba. The emphasis will be on increasing flight frequency, simplifying the structure and increasing the number of nonstop flights to and from the Leeward Islands.

Whereas, previously, multiple destinations on the Dutch Antilles were often bundled into round-trip flights (for example: Amsterdam-Aruba-Curaçao-Amsterdam), it now appears that increasing numbers of KLM passengers prefer nonstop flights.

Effective December 1, 2002, five nonstop flights a week will be operated between Amsterdam and Curaçao using B747-300 equipment. Thrice-weekly nonstop flights will be operated to Aruba using MD 11 equipment. The stopover destination of the daily Amsterdam-Lima flight (currently Aruba) will be relocated to Bonaire. The adjustments will also mean that KLM will operate twice-daily nonstop flights to Bonaire using MD11 equipment, given that the stopover destination of the daily Quito flight is already Bonaire.

KLM will be cooperating with its new partner, Dutch Eagle Express NV, which will be operating its flights under the name BonairExel.

BonairExel will operate connecting flights between the various islands that connect seamlessly with KLM's flights. On balance, this will greatly increase the number of daily connections for existing destinations. Transfer passengers flying with BonairExel will also be able to participate in KLM's Flying Dutchman loyalty program.

The following connections with Amsterdam will be offered in cooperation with partner airline BonairExel:

· Bonaire: 19x weekly (incl. 14x nonstop)
· Curaçao: 12x weekly (incl. 5x nonstop)
· Aruba: 17x weekly (incl. 3x nonstop)
· Saint Martin: 14x a week via Bonaire and Curaçao