Exeter Airport takes off with new global travel route

Exeter Airport has “opened the door to the world” with the official launch of new daily flights to Amsterdam with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.

The start of the route means travellers from the South West now have a direct link to Amsterdam with onward connections to over 160 destinations worldwide, and access to hundreds more destinations through KLM’s collaboration with partner airlines. 

Almost every place in the world can be reached via Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, making the route a significant step forward in the region's global connectivity.

Stephen Wiltshire, managing director of Exeter Airport, said: “This is a game-changer for connectivity in the South West. 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, and we look forward to welcoming even more passengers on board.”

Above: Image: Exeter Airport

Jerome Salemi, general manager for UK and Ireland at Air France-KLM, added: “The response to this new route has been fantastic, and we are delighted to be bringing KLM’s world-class service to Exeter. 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.”

This is the first time in almost five years that Exeter Airport has offered direct flights to Amsterdam, and the first time KLM has flown from Exeter. The service is being promoted under the message “Travel far from where you are”, emphasising how Exeter Airport now provides a gateway to the world.