Air France-KLM will cut capacity on its underperforming medium-haul network this summer a further 5.3%, while boosting long-haul capacity 2%.
The strict capacity control, representing 0.3% growth overall, follows a sharp downturn in Air France-KLM’s full-year profitability. “Following the early adoption of certain measures during winter 2012-2013, all the actions decided as part of Transform 2015 will be implemented in summer 2013,” the company said in a statement.
Air France-KLM said its medium-haul network reorganization is “still underway,” leading to the 5.3% capacity reduction in capacity. Likewise, its regional flights—performed by BritAir, Regional and Airlinair—are being shifted to the new HOP! brand, which will launch March 31.
The group is channeling its long-haul capacity increase into emerging markets, including Africa (up 8.1%), Asia-Pacific (up 5.6%) and Latin America (up 3.4%). It will open new services to Montevideo, Kuala Lumpur and Minneapolis, and boost frequencies to destinations including Bangkok, Guangzhou, Libreville and Havana.
