KLM’s first Airbus A350-900 completes maiden test flight

The first Airbus A350-900 destined for KLM, named ‘The Night Watch’, completed its maiden test flight over southern France on September 4, 2026. The aircraft, which will eventually carry the Dutch registration PH-ZNA, conducted a 94-minute flight circuit departing from and returning to Toulouse-Blagnac.

This aircraft is the first of 22 A350-900s KLM expects to receive as part of a larger 50-aircraft order by the Air France-KLM Group. The arrival marks a significant transition for the airline as it shifts its fleet composition toward Airbus models.

Commercial operations are scheduled to begin on October 23, 2026, on the route between Amsterdam Schiphol and Toronto Pearson. However, KLM noted that the aircraft may initially operate with an empty business class cabin due to certification delays regarding the new seating following a change in regulatory interpretation. The aircraft is configured for 331 passengers across Business Class, Premium Comfort, and Economy Class.