Edmonton airport announces new direct flight to Amsterdam

(Watch: Starting next year, Edmontonians will be offered direct flights to one of Europe’s biggest flight hubs. Eric Szeto reports.)

EDMONTON – The Edmonton International Airport has announced a new non-stop flight between Edmonton and Amsterdam.

Beginning on May 5, 2015, KLM Royal dutch Airlines will offer a non-stop flight between the EIA and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

The flight will be in service year-round three times a week: Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, with Friday service being added on June 22 for the summer.

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EIA President and CEO Tom Ruth says the direct flight to Amsterdam will provide passengers with access with connections to over 120 destinations in Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

“KLM is an outstanding world-class airline, renowned for great service and great international destinations, and we’re very pleased to be added to that fantastic network,” adds Ruth.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "KLM is an outstanding world-class airline, renowned for great service and great international destinations, and we're very pleased to be added to that fantastic network," adds Ruth.

The new route will operate with an Airbus A330-200 Aircraft with 30 Business Class eats, 35 Economy Comfort Zone Seats, and 178 Economy seats.

“Adding Edmonton to the worldwide KLM network will enable us to further increase our presence in Canada as we now offer a second destination in the Province of Alberta, says Pieter Elbers, KLM President and CEO.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Adding Edmonton to the worldwide KLM network will enable us to further increase our presence in Canada as we now offer a second destination in the Province of Alberta, says Pieter Elbers, KLM President and CEO.

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Alberta Minister of Culture and Tourism Maureen Kubinec is optimistic the new flight will generate more tourism in Alberta.

“Canada and the Netherlands have a long history of friendship and trade. The new air service will make it easier than ever for Netherlands and international visitors to explore all Alberta has to offer.”

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Mayor Don Iveson believes the new service demonstrates growth within the Capital Region, and will provide additional options for business and visitors.

According to EIA, international travel is its fastest growing passenger segment, increasing by 15 per cent over the past year.