KLM. Photo: Jose Luis Vega / Shutterstock.com KLM is marking 60 years of flights between Birmingham and Amsterdam, celebrating a long-standing connection that has developed into an important link between the West Midlands and the airline's global network.
The inaugural service established a direct air connection between Birmingham and the Dutch capital. Since then, KLM has expanded its presence at Birmingham Airport, giving passengers from across the Midlands access to destinations worldwide through its hub at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.
Birmingham Airport. Photo: Ceri Breeze / ShutterstockToday, the airline operates up to five daily flights between Birmingham and Amsterdam, providing connections to more than 160 destinations across its global network.
Recent booking data covering January to August 2026 highlights the importance of the route for both outbound and inbound travel, including business trips, holidays and visits to friends and family.
Beyond the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark and Sweden were among the most popular European destinations booked by passengers travelling from the Birmingham region.
For long-haul journeys, Thailand, South Africa, Nigeria and Ghana featured among the leading destinations. The figures underline the role of the Amsterdam connection in linking the Midlands with markets beyond Europe.
Amsterdam airport. Photo: ShutterstockThe route also supports inbound tourism and business travel to the region. According to KLM's booking data, the main European source markets for visitors travelling to Birmingham and the surrounding area broadly mirror the most popular European destinations booked by local passengers.
Further afield, the United States, Canada, Accra and Nigeria account for significant volumes of visitors arriving from international markets.
Jerome Salemi, General Manager of Air France-KLM UK and Ireland, said the anniversary reflects the airline's long-standing commitment to the Midlands.
"We are proud to have played a part in connecting the region with the rest of the world, whether traveling for business, exploring new destinations or visiting loved ones," he said.
Salemi added that Birmingham remains an important part of KLM's UK network and that the airline looks forward to continuing the partnership.
Andrew Pelham, Head of Airline Relations at Birmingham Airport, also welcomed the milestone, highlighting the role of KLM's Amsterdam service in providing passengers with access to the airline's international connections.
The 60-year anniversary comes as Birmingham Airport continues to benefit from its links with major European hubs, allowing passengers from the Midlands to reach destinations that are not served by direct flights from the airport.