VANCOUVER — KLM recently celebrated the 40th anniversary of its service connecting Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS).

The Vancouver-Amsterdam route was launched in 1986 with three weekly DC-10 flights, one of which included a stopover in Calgary until 1996.

KLM aircraft in YVR, April 2, 2026

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, travelled on that first KLM flight from AMS to YVR.

Marking the 40th anniversary, KLM, in collaboration with YVR Airport, hosted a special gate celebration for the passengers and crew of flight KL 682.

KLM’s YVR inaugural flight on April 2, 1986, with Princess Margriet of the Netherlands

“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.

Russ Atkinson, Director, Air Service Development at Vancouver International Airport, added: “On behalf of YVR, I am thrilled to congratulate KLM on 40 years of service in Vancouver. Our longstanding relationship continues to drive economic benefits for our community and provides travelers with convenient, non-stop access from YVR to Amsterdam and seamless connections across Europe, reinforcing YVR’s role as a global hub.”

A special headrest highlights KLM’s Vancouver and Calgary connection to AMS on April 2, 1986

KLM’s schedule from Canada this summer includes daily flights from Vancouver as well as direct service from Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto and Montreal, for a total of up to 40 flights per week.

Lead image caption: Jean-Eudes de La Bretèche, Country Manager, Air France KLM Canada (far right) and Russ Atkinson, Director, Air Service Development at Vancouver International Airport (second from right) with KLM crew at YVR