Home » AIRLINE NEWS » KLM Joins Vietnam Airlines, LATAM Airlines, Transavia and TUI fly with New Routes to Effectuate Amsterdam That Might Lead to a Surge in Tourism
Published on
February 26, 2026
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Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) is poised for an exciting expansion in 2026, with several airlines securing new routes despite the strict government-imposed cap of 478,000 annual aircraft movements. Starting from the Summer 2026 season (beginning on March 29, 2026), long-haul and regional flights will be introduced, offering new direct services to destinations in Asia, South America, and Europe. These additions will enhance Amsterdam Schiphol’s connectivity, strengthening its position as a major international aviation hub.
New Long-Haul Routes from Amsterdam Schiphol in 2026
The expansion of long-haul routes from Amsterdam Schiphol is one of the most anticipated developments in the aviation industry for 2026. Several major airlines have announced new direct services, marking the beginning of more global connections.
Vietnam Airlines: Nonstop Service to Hanoi
Starting on June 16, 2026, Vietnam Airlines will introduce its first-ever nonstop service between Hanoi, Vietnam (HAN), and Amsterdam Schiphol. The airline will operate this route three times weekly using the Airbus A350-900, providing passengers with a direct and efficient connection between the Netherlands and Vietnam. This service is expected to boost trade and tourism between the two countries while offering travelers in Hanoi a new gateway to Europe.
LATAM Airlines: Direct Flights to São Paulo
In April 2026, LATAM Airlines will launch three weekly direct flights between São Paulo (GRU), Brazil, and Amsterdam Schiphol. This new service will enhance the connectivity between South America and Europe, offering passengers a more convenient travel option. This route will also cater to the growing demand for direct connections between the Brazilian market and key destinations in Europe, strengthening LATAM Airlines‘ network.
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Thai Airways: Resuming Service to Bangkok After 30 Years
A significant development for Summer 2026 is the return of Thai Airways to Amsterdam Schiphol, nearly 30 years after it suspended its service. Thai Airways will resume direct flights between Bangkok (BKK) and Amsterdam during the summer season, marking a historic return. The resumption of this service is expected to be a game-changer for travelers between Thailand and Europe, providing both leisure and business passengers with a convenient nonstop option.
New Regional and European Routes for 2026
In addition to the exciting long-haul connections, Amsterdam Schiphol will also witness the launch of several new European and regional routes. These new services are set to enhance connectivity within Europe and further support the growth of the airport.
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KLM: Expanding European Network
KLM is adding three new destinations to its European network in Spring 2026. These new services will provide travelers with more direct options for exploring lesser-known cities in Europe. The following destinations will be added to KLM’s summer schedule:
Jersey (JER), British Channel Island: Starting April 4, 2026, KLM will operate weekly flights to Jersey, with daily flights during the peak summer season. This service will cater to travelers visiting this popular holiday destination.Oviedo (OVD), Spain: March 29, 2026 will see KLM launch its new route to Oviedo, a city in the Asturias region of northern Spain. This route will offer access to Spain’s northern coast and will be a valuable addition for both leisure and business travelers.Santiago de Compostela (SCQ), Spain: Starting on May 30, 2026, KLM will introduce flights to Santiago de Compostela, a city famous for its historical significance and the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.TUI fly: New Flights to Southern Europe
In the summer of 2026, TUI fly will introduce two new destinations to its network, both located in southern Europe:
Brindisi (BDS), Italy: TUI fly will begin operating three weekly flights to Brindisi, in Southern Italy, starting April 24, 2026. This new service will make it easier for travelers to explore Italy’s Puglia region and its beautiful coastline.Tivat (TIV), Montenegro: Starting on May 13, 2026, TUI fly will offer twice-weekly flights to Tivat, located along the Adriatic coast. This destination will appeal to travelers seeking access to Montenegro’s stunning beaches and coastal scenery.Transavia: Expanding European Routes
For Summer 2026, Transavia will convert several former charter routes into direct scheduled services, expanding its reach across Europe and providing travelers with more options for regional travel. The new destinations include:
Italy: Alghero (AHO) in Sardinia and Palermo (PMO) in Sicily will be added to Transavia’s network, providing direct flights to two popular Italian destinations.Greece: Direct flights will be offered to Skiathos, Karpathos, and Lesbos, three beautiful Greek islands known for their stunning landscapes and rich culture.Turkey and Egypt: Antalya (AYT), Hurghada (HRG), and Marsa Alam (RMF) will be included in Transavia’s expanded summer schedule, connecting Europe with popular resorts in Turkey and Egypt.Future Outlook for Amsterdam Schiphol
The expansion of routes from Amsterdam Schiphol is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by increasing demand for both long-haul and regional flights. Looking ahead, Schiphol is preparing for a major infrastructure upgrade, with the opening of Pier A scheduled for 2027. This expansion will create more space for larger aircraft, improving capacity and efficiency at one of Europe’s busiest airports.
In addition to the infrastructure upgrades, Riyadh Air from Saudi Arabia has expressed its intent to connect to over 100 destinations globally by 2030, with European expansion beginning in 2026. This could lead to new connections between Saudi Arabia and Amsterdam Schiphol, further strengthening the airport’s international network.
