KLM Royal Dutch Airlines took a step back in time to help promote the launch of its new daily route from George Best Belfast City Airport to Amsterdam starting on May 18.
The flag carrier airline of the Netherlands took a number of key business people, guests and media on a series of scenic trips over Belfast aboard the iconic Dakota DC-3 aircraft, which was originally built in 1944 and was the world's first commercial aircraft. KLM has operated routes to Europe, the Far East and beyond for nearly 100 years, and the DC-3 aircraft - which saw service in WW2 at the Normandy landings - was a living reminder of the fascinating history behind modern aviation and of the carrier's legacy as the world's oldest airline still operating under its original name.
Its new service to Amsterdam offers Northern Ireland passengers access to KLM's worldwide network of more than 200 destinations in 100 countries, via the Schiphol airport hub.
Warner Rootliep, general manager UK & Ireland for Air France-KLM, said: "We're delighted to add George Best Belfast City Airport to our network of departure points across the UK and Ireland. "KLM recognises the significance of Belfast as a departure point for both business and leisure travellers, and passengers will now be able to enjoy convenient connections to over 200 destinations worldwide, from their regional airport. "This year we are launching routes to new and exciting destinations including Bogota and Cali in Colombia, Edmonton in Canada, and Krakow in Poland, and we look forward to welcoming Belfast passengers on board, to discover the world with KLM."
* OLD TIMER: KLM's Warner Rootliep and Katy Best from Belfast City Airport alongside the Dakota DC-3