Hungarian Air Travel Market Full of Opportunities

Fleet renewal, more sustainable operation, operational efficiency and enhancing the passenger experience – these are some of the most important issues Jan Kropáček, Country Sales Manager for Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovakia at Air France-KLM discusses with Diplomacy&Trade as the company continues to strengthen its competitive edge through its network.

Jan Kropáček was appointed head of the Hungarian Sales Team in March this year. Speaking of his first experiences, he emphasizes that he considers “the opportunity to lead in this region both exciting and deeply meaningful, given my Czech background and strong connection to Central Europe. While the Czech and Hungarian markets each have their unique characteristics, they also share many important similarities. I have been truly impressed by the effectiveness and collaboration demonstrated by our local teams and partners. Looking ahead, our foremost priority is to adapt to evolving market conditions while ensuring sustainable, long-term success across the region.”

Value for money
As for the unique characteristics of the Czech and Hungarian markets – and the differences – he says that Hungary is a typical Central European market – price-sensitive but full of growth opportunities. Passenger numbers are rising, showing that the right strategy can make a real impact. Like in many other countries in the region, consumers are paying closer attention to the value they get for their money, even when traveling. “This is driving stronger demand for premium products. Still, as mentioned earlier, there is plenty of room for further improvement.”

True First Class Cabin
Competition with other Western European airlines is becoming increasingly fierce. As to what sets Air France-KLM apart from its competitors in this regard, the Country Sales Manager stresses that Air France is one of the few airlines worldwide that still offers a true First Class cabin in addition to Business Class. “This product is distinguished by its exceptional design, featuring a five-window space with both a bed and a chaise longue to deliver maximum comfort and privacy for our customers with personalized service and a gourmet food offering curated by Michelin-starred chefs. This product is being gradually introduced across Air France’s long-haul fleet, starting with select Boeing 777 300ER aircraft.”
At the same time, the company continues to strengthen its competitive edge through its network. “Air France-KLM currently operates the largest number of flights between North America and Europe, and with the acquisition of SAS Scandinavian Airlines, we have significantly expanded our presence in Northern Europe,” he adds.

Operational efficiency
It is a declared aim at Air France-KLM that the company will continue to invest in a cleaner and quieter fleet as a long-term objective. “In practical terms, this means we are modernizing our fleet by phasing out Boeing 737s that are more than 20 years old and replacing them with Airbus A321neos, which deliver industry leading fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. At the same time, we continue to expand our long-haul fleet with Boeing 787s and next year, KLM will introduce the Airbus A350, further strengthening our commitment to sustainability and operational excellence. Beyond fleet renewal, we are also investing in sustainable aviation fuel, with the ambition to exceed the European Union’s 2% requirement,” Jan Kropáček points out.
Operational efficiency remains a key priority. The company is implementing measures such as single engine taxiing whenever possible and optimizing flight paths and descent procedures to minimize fuel burn and environmental impact.
This focus on sustainability extends across the Group. Air France is accelerating its own fleet renewal, with regional aircraft progressively replaced by more fuel-efficient Airbus A220s. Today, new generation aircraft already represent around 30% of the combined Air France–KLM fleet, underscoring the company’s determination to build a cleaner, more efficient future for aviation.

More sustainable aviation
Sustainability is one the first things that people associate with The Netherlands and it also appears in the activities and efforts of KLM. The Country Manager asserts that sustainability is deeply rooted in Dutch culture, and “at KLM, it is reflected in our daily operations and long-term strategy. We are actively expanding the use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and working with partners, including Delft University of Technology, on breakthrough research in aerodynamics and future energy solutions such as hydrogen. Beyond fuel innovation, we are modernizing our fleet, optimizing ground and flight operations to reduce emissions, and ensuring that onboard services reflect our commitment to sustainability – from fresh, locally sourced meals to recycling and upcycling initiatives. These efforts go beyond selective waste collection; they embody the Netherlands’ tradition of innovation and responsibility, and position KLM at the forefront of a more sustainable aviation in Europe.”

Serving a global customer base
2026 is just around the corner. Regarding preparations for next year, Jan Kropáček highlights that on top of the fleet renewal already discussed, Air France-KLM is enhancing the passenger experience this winter. Air France is expanding high speed Wi-Fi across its fleet, with full coverage planned by the end of 2026, ensuring passengers benefit from improved connectivity as the rollout progresses.
The Group has also broadened its network for the Winter 2025–2026 season. Air France now serves Phuket (Thailand) and Punta Cana (Dominican Republic), while KLM has launched flights to Kittilä (Lapland, Finland) and Barbados (in the Caribbean). “These additions reflect our commitment to offering greater choice and meeting the diverse needs of our global customer base.”