KLM, the Netherlands Aerospace Centre, and GKN Fokker celebrated 100 years of aviation at the EYE Filmmuseum, together with King Willem-Alexander and other distinguished guests. They reflected with pride on the past while looking ahead to a sustainable future.
The aviation sector continues to innovate, with aircraft becoming quieter and more fuel-efficient, and research into new energy sources driving sustainable transportation. Thanks to a strong focus on innovation, the Netherlands possesses the technological expertise needed to lead the way and contribute to a better climate.
KLM, NLR, and GKN Fokker have jointly embraced their responsibility for a sustainable future, celebrating this commitment during the event “100 Years of Aviation in the Netherlands – Towards a Sustainable Future.”
Of course, the event reflected on a century of aviation history, but in true Dutch spirit, the focus was primarily on innovation and the future. The Student Challenge, organized by the three aviation organizations, resulted in inspiring pitches, with one standout idea receiving special recognition. Marc Pieters, a 25-year-old former NASA intern, shared his vision for the future of aviation in an inspiring speech. Through the eyes of the next generation, guests gained a fresh perspective on what the next hundred years may hold for the aviation industry.
The celebration of 100 years of aviation in the Netherlands – on the path to a sustainable future – struck the perfect balance between content, networking, and celebration. After the plenary session, where moderator Janine Abbring and the CEOs of the three aviation organizations discussed how to make aviation more sustainable with the help of various stakeholders and partners, King Willem-Alexander marked the occasion by striking a commemorative coin using a historic fly press. He also presented a special anniversary postage stamp to the Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management, Cora van Nieuwenhuizen. The event concluded with a spectacular flyby, allowing even the public outside to take part in the celebration.