[KLM – Dutch Airlines] Phase out of B737-300 & -400 "Classic Bobby"
 

Bobby-phase-out
 

It is about time after minimum 15 Years plus service for a legacy carrier to replace them. They are marketable to some Charter Airlines or startups who. I have seen the first NG´s in the late 1998 within Europe. I think my first flight was from AMS to LGW with a -800.

What I noticed a while ago on a DH-flight from PRG to FRA that the Bobby fleet from DLH (B737-300+500) get´s worn out and shows signs of aging despite the care given from LH-Maintenance. Time to drop the average age as well with some replacement.

KLM took delivery of B737NG´s long time ago, so the phase out will be natural. The exact date? Not known.

If properly maintained there is nothing wrong in a "legacy" carrier operating older aircraft. Some of BA's 737s, 747s and 767s are over 20 years old. They only need replacing when their operating costs become uneconomic.

I remember...
 

...seeing most of the 737 fleet in AMS in November 1991 and they wern't new then - so thats 20 years.

Some were at Kemble earlier this year for parting out I believe. Most charter airlines would be able to pick up newer more economic ex-lease aeroplanes in preference to the older 73's so I doubt there would be much of a market for the complete frame.

I have flown recently on some "old" KLM 737,s in Kenya operating internal shuttle to Mombassa from Nairobi. Do not know reg numbers though.

I recently had the very dubious pleasure of flying in an ex BMI 737-400 now with Batavia in Indonesia. Frankly; flying scrap.

Start of the 2011-2012 winter season was the end of the 737 Classic for KLM. Last -300 and last 3 -400s were parked up. Fleet now consisting of: 18 -700s, 23 -800s & 5 -900s. 4 More -800s on order.
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