Exeter to Amsterdam flights take off

Exeter Airport has taken a major leap in reconnecting the South West with the rest of the world, thanks to the official launch of daily flights to Amsterdam with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.

It’s the first time in almost five years that direct flights from Exeter to the Dutch capital have been available – and the first time KLM has operated from the Devon airport.

The route, which is already proving popular, gives passengers access to more than 160 onward destinations via Amsterdam Schiphol – one of the world’s busiest and best-connected international hubs.

Describing the new route as a "game-changer", Stephen Wiltshire, Managing Director of Exeter Airport, said:

“We are thrilled to see KLM’s new service take off, giving both leisure and business travellers access to the world from their local airport.

“At the same time, the route is opening up our region to more international visitors, supporting the local economy and tourism industry. The strong demand we’ve already seen demonstrates how much this route was needed.”

Jerome Salemi, General Manager for UK & Ireland at Air France-KLM, said the airline was delighted by the early response:

“With Amsterdam Airport Schiphol as a gateway, passengers have access to a vast network of destinations.

“Equally, we are excited to see strong inbound interest, highlighting the international appeal of the South West. After the Netherlands, the top source markets for bookings include Germany, Italy, Belgium, the United States, Switzerland, Norway, Australia, Finland, and France.”

The service is operated by KLM Cityhopper, using an 88-seat Embraer 175 aircraft offering Economy and Business class options. Departures leave Exeter daily at 17.20 local time, with return flights from Amsterdam at 16.15.

The new route is being promoted under the message ‘Travel far from where you are’, a nod to Exeter Airport’s role as a global gateway for the region.