Dutch carrier KLM has announced a major upgrade of its fleet of 22 Embraer 195-E2 planes, as used by its KLM Cityhopper service.
Earlier this month, the first upgraded Embraer 195-E2 operated by KLM Cityhopper took off on its flight to Porto. All 22 Embraer 195-E2s will be fitted with four additional seats in Economy Class. This enables KLM Cityhopper to carry more passengers and generate increased revenue. At the same time, CO₂ emissions per passenger will decrease by 3% compared to the previous configuration of the E195-E2.
A total of 22 aircraft will be converted by June 2026, increasing capacity from 132 to 136 seats. Aircraft currently parked in Twente will also receive the new cabin layout upon their return. This means that one aircraft will be converted every five working days.
The upgrade is made possible by reducing the size of the galley and optimizing the way it is stocked. This results in lower catering weight on every flight. KLM Cityhopper will now implement this new catering process across its entire fleet, which will lead to an annual reduction of 5 million kilograms in catering weight. This could save up to 160,000 kilograms of jet fuel per year.
KLM Cityhopper employees have been involved in this process improvement to ensure the new layout is practical for the crew. Passenger comfort and the onboard catering offering will remain unchanged.
