KLM Celebrates 106 Years of Transatlantic Friendship with Iconic Delft Blue House in Leiden

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has marked a monumental milestone, celebrating 106 years of continuous connection with the United States by proudly unveiling its 106th iconic Delft Blue miniature house. This year's special addition, a detailed replica of the American Pilgrims Museum in Leiden, stands as a vibrant tribute to the deep historical and cultural ties between the Netherlands and the US.

The unveiling ceremony, held in Leiden, brought together esteemed guests including KLM CEO Marjan Rintel and Shawn Crowley, Chargé d'Affaires for the US Embassy in the Netherlands.

The choice of the American Pilgrims Museum for the 106th house is profoundly symbolic. This historic building, once home to the Pilgrims before their iconic voyage on the Mayflower, encapsulates a pivotal chapter in transatlantic history, representing the enduring spirit of discovery and connection that KLM continues to foster.

"For 106 years, KLM has been the steadfast link between the Netherlands and the United States, a bond built on shared history, culture, and countless journeys," stated Marjan Rintel.

"Our 106th Delft Blue house is more than just a miniature; it's a celebration of this profound connection, especially fitting as it represents a place so significant to both our nations' stories."

Shawn Crowley echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the unique relationship: "The Netherlands and the US share an exceptional history, a relationship deeply woven into the fabric of our societies.

KLM has been an integral part of this journey, literally bridging continents and cultures for over a century. This Delft Blue house is a beautiful representation of that lasting friendship."

KLM's legacy as the longest-running airline connecting Europe and the US began with its inaugural flight to New York in 1926, establishing a vital air bridge that has transported millions of passengers and fostered countless connections over the decades.

Today, KLM continues to offer a robust network of flights, strengthening economic, cultural, and personal ties.

The tradition of KLM's Delft Blue houses began in the 1950s, with each house containing Dutch gin (jenever) and gifted to World Business Class passengers. These highly sought-after miniatures depict real historical buildings throughout the Netherlands, each telling a unique story of Dutch heritage.

The 106th house, with its connection to the American Pilgrims Museum, beautifully intertwines Dutch history with a foundational moment in American history, making it a truly special addition to the collection.

As KLM looks to the future, it reaffirms its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and strengthening the transatlantic partnership.

The unveiling of the 106th Delft Blue house not only celebrates a remarkable past but also looks forward to many more years of connecting people, cultures, and continents, reinforcing the strong bonds between the Netherlands and the United States.