KLM marks 40 years of Vancouver–Amsterdam route

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is celebrating the 40th anniversary of connecting Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS).

The Vancouver–Amsterdam route was launched in 1986 – a year that saw Vancouver host the World Exposition on Transportation and Communication, Expo 86.

The service began with three weekly DC-10 flights, one of which included a stopover in Calgary until 1996.

The launch of the route was meaningful for the many people of Dutch origin living in Western Canada, offering a new way to stay connected with their heritage and families.

The inaugural flight was distinguished by the presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands, who was born in Canada during the Second World War and symbolizes the enduring friendship between the two nations.

Princess Margriet, accompanied by her husband Professor Pieter van Vollenhoven, travelled on the first KLM flight from Amsterdam to Vancouver, marking the official opening of the transatlantic service.

During her visit, Her Royal Highness also presided over the inauguration of a special exhibition of 100 Dutch masterworks at the Vancouver Art Gallery, further strengthening the cultural ties between the Netherlands and Canada.

To mark the 40th anniversary, KLM, in collaboration with YVR airport, hosted a special gate celebration for the passengers and crew of flight KL 682, featuring commemorative cupcakes and festive remembrances prior to departure.

“For 40 years, the Vancouver–Amsterdam route has embodied the unique link between Western Canada and Europe. Our partnership with Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has been instrumental to the development and success of this strategic route, benefiting both business and leisure travellers. We are proud to have connected families, fostered cultural exchange, and encouraged tourism in both directions across the Atlantic,” said Jean-Eudes de La Bretèche, country manager, Air France KLM Canada, in a press release.

Summer 2026

This summer, KLM will operate a global program of 164 destinations, including 96 in Europe and 68 intercontinental routes.

Vancouver will be served daily during the peak summer season.

In Canada, where KLM has been present for 76 years, the airline also serves Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, and Montreal with direct flights to Amsterdam, for a total of up to 40 flights per week.

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook.