Amstelveen – 2008-06-10

Camiel Eurlings, Minister of Transport and Public Works for the Dutch government, accompanied by KLM President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Hartman, took official receipt of an environmentally friendly painting system. The cabinet member inaugurated the system by painting the KLM logo on a Boeing 747.

KLM Engineering & Maintenance developed the environmentally sustainable, chromate-free paint together with German manufacturer Mankiewicz.

The system uses 15% less paint when covering an aircraft. As a result, the aircraft weighs less, uses less fuel, and creates fewer carbon dioxide emissions. Degreasing the aircraft before repainting can now be done with simple soap and water. Previously, this required 800 litres of aggressive, inflammable solvent.

The new paint also has cost advantages. The gloss and colour remain longer so an aircraft doesn't need repainting as often. What is more, the painting process takes two days less as the paint dries more quickly. The system has been tested extensively.

KLM is the only airline using this environmentally friendly and cost-saving system.

KLM takes a leading role when it comes to sustainable and innovative development. Recently, and for the fourth time running, KLM took first prize as the most sustainable airline listed on the Dow Jones Sustainability Index.

For more information:
KLM Media Relations, Joyce Veekman, tel.: +31 (0)20 - 649 4545
Ministry of Transport and Public Works, Lars Poppes, tel.: +31 (0)70 - 351 7343