National airline KLM reported an operating profit of 176 million euros for the second quarter, marking a slight increase of 3 million euros compared to the same period last year.
The positive result came despite broader financial pressures affecting the aviation sector, including fluctuating fuel costs and operational bottlenecks across European airspace.
Global routes drive revenue
Disruptions in the Middle East led to reduced flight capacity for several major international carriers, allowing the airline to capture higher demand and adjust ticket prices on Asian routes.
Long-haul operations saw revenue rise by 11 percent, boosted by a growing preference among travelers for premium seats, including business class accommodations.
Strong performance in passenger travel was matched by a surge in air freight, where cargo revenues grew by more than 25 percent as shipping companies turned to air transport for greater reliability.
Parent company faces mixed results
Parent organization Air France-KLM achieved a total operating profit of 484 million euros for the quarter, though this represented a decline from the previous year.
While the overall group profit dropped, the figures surpassed analyst expectations due to robust transatlantic travel and successful cost-pass-through strategies for jet fuel.
Results differed significantly between the group’s main operating branches, with French operations experiencing a sharper drop in profitability than their Dutch counterpart.
European market remains competitive
Short and medium-haul flights within Europe saw more modest revenue gains of just 4 percent, constrained by strong competition from low-cost carriers and high rail availability on select routes.
Budget subsidiary Transavia reported a loss of 35 million euros for the quarter, despite flying more passengers and recording higher overall passenger loads across its network.
The group expects international travel demand to remain steady through the remainder of the summer period, particularly on long-distance flights connecting through Schiphol Airport.
