Martin Schröder: Martinair is indispensable to KLM

© Khunaspix Dreamstime.

The founder of Martinair, 83-year old Martin Schröder, has said that the planned downsizing of KLM’s cargo subsidiary has caused much “pain”. In an interview with Nieuwsblad Transport, he argues that there is still a role for Martinair – and it should be “indispensable” to KLM – in part to stem competition and “influence” from other carriers at Schiphol. Mr Schröder claims there is money to be made by Martinair, which has a different strategy to KLM, and separate aviation rights. He also pointed to Lufthansa Cargo’s recent investment in freighters as a reason why KLM should continue to back freight. “You must always remain optimistic, not pessimistic. You should be like Lufthansa and focus on better times, and not wait until [they come] – because then you’re too late.” The article is in Dutch, but you can get a somewhat garbled translation here.