KLM grounds seven Boeing 787s over improper maintenance, cancels flights

KLM has grounded seven of its Boeing 787 aircraft after discovering that maintenance procedures for a refueling component were not properly followed, forcing the airline to cancel multiple long-haul flights and delay hundreds of passengers.

The Dutch airline confirmed Saturday that three intercontinental flights were canceled due to the issue, affecting nearly 650 travelers. The grounded flights included routes to Mexico City, Chicago, and Portland. Two of the flights were delayed between three and five hours, while the Mexico City flight, carrying 250 passengers, was delayed by an entire day.

KLM initially believed that passengers on all three canceled flights would be unable to depart before Sunday. Passengers are being rebooked on alternative flights, and the airline is deploying replacement aircraft when possible to minimize disruption.

“Although there is no safety risk, the seven aircraft will remain grounded and undergo expedited maintenance,” the airline stated. The issue involves a component used during aircraft refueling. While the part is identical to one found on Boeing 777 aircraft—where KLM followed correct procedures—a different instruction applies to the Boeing 787 models.

“KLM has therefore decided to carry out maintenance on the seven affected 787 aircraft as quickly as possible according to the correct specifications,” the airline said.

KLM operates a fleet of 228 aircraft, including 24 Boeing 787s, which are primarily used on long-distance international routes.

The airline said it is doing everything possible to reduce the impact on passengers. “Where possible, a replacement aircraft will be deployed. If that is not feasible, passengers will be rebooked to another flight so they can reach their destination with minimal inconvenience,” a spokesperson said.