KLM Reinstates Direct Exeter-Amsterdam Route After Four-Year Hiatus
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is set to re-establish a direct air link between Exeter Airport and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, commencing operations at the end of March 2024. This marks the revival of a connection that was last available in 2019, providing a significant boost to regional connectivity for travelers in southwest England. The daily service, operated by KLM’s regional subsidiary, KLM Cityhopper, will utilize an Embraer 175 aircraft with a capacity of 88 passengers. The flight duration is approximately 90 minutes, with outbound flights departing Amsterdam at 4:15 PM and arriving in Exeter at 4:50 PM local time. Return flights will depart Exeter at 5:20 PM, landing in Amsterdam at 7:50 PM local time. One-way fares have been advertised as low as £115, offering an accessible option for both leisure and business travelers. This new route signifies KLM’s 18th departure point from the UK to Amsterdam, highlighting the airline’s commitment to strengthening its network and providing convenient access to its extensive global hub. Exeter Airport officials have welcomed the new route as a "tremendous boost" for the region, anticipating positive economic and tourism impacts.
Amsterdam: A Vibrant Cultural Hub and Gateway to Europe
Amsterdam, renowned for its canals, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene, consistently ranks among the world’s most liveable cities. The Dutch capital offers a plethora of attractions, from world-class museums like the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum to unique experiences like the Icebar and the A’dam Lookout, where visitors can swing over the edge of a 20-story building. Advanced online booking for museum tickets is highly recommended, especially during peak season. The I Amsterdam City Card provides convenient and cost-effective access to numerous attractions and public transportation. Beyond the traditional tourist trail, the northern district of Amsterdam, often referred to as the "Brooklyn of Amsterdam," offers a more edgy and alternative experience. This area, characterized by converted warehouses, street art, and a burgeoning culinary scene, provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving cultural landscape.
Exploring Amsterdam-Noord: A Hip and Eclectic Neighborhood
A recent travel experience highlights the unique charm of Amsterdam-Noord. Easily accessible via a free ferry ride across the river IJ, this former shipyard district has transformed into a hub of creativity and innovation. The industrial warehouses have been repurposed into trendy restaurants, bars, and museums, creating a dynamic and alternative atmosphere. Street art adorns nearly every surface, reflecting the area’s vibrant artistic spirit. The culinary scene in Noord is also flourishing, with restaurants offering innovative menus and craft cocktails. The area’s energy and distinct character offer a refreshing contrast to the more traditional tourist areas of Amsterdam.
Exeter Airport: Expanding Connectivity and Passenger Growth
Exeter Airport, despite its smaller size, has experienced a steady increase in passenger numbers, with a recent 5% growth demonstrating its importance to regional travel. The addition of the Amsterdam route further enhances the airport’s connectivity, providing convenient access to a major European hub and facilitating onward travel to destinations worldwide. This expansion of services reflects the growing demand for air travel in the region and underscores the airport’s commitment to serving the needs of both leisure and business travelers.
KLM’s Strategic Expansion and Enhanced Connectivity
KLM’s decision to reinstate the Exeter-Amsterdam route underlines the airline’s strategic focus on expanding its network and providing enhanced connectivity for passengers in the UK. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport serves as KLM’s major hub, offering a vast network of connecting flights to destinations across the globe. This new route provides travelers in southwest England with seamless access to KLM’s extensive network, facilitating both business and leisure travel. The airline’s commitment to regional connectivity contributes to economic development and strengthens tourism ties between the UK and the Netherlands.
A Renewed Travel Link: Connecting Southwest England to Europe and Beyond
The resumption of direct flights between Exeter and Amsterdam represents a significant development for regional connectivity, offering travelers in southwest England convenient and efficient access to a major European hub. The 90-minute flight time and daily service frequency enhance the appeal of this route for both business and leisure travelers. Amsterdam’s status as a global hub opens up a world of travel possibilities, connecting Exeter to destinations worldwide. The renewed air link strengthens economic and cultural ties between the two regions and contributes to the ongoing growth of Exeter Airport. This development is welcomed by both airport officials and travelers alike, offering a convenient and accessible gateway to Europe and beyond.
