KLM’s newest social initiative turns gamers into aviation decision-makers

Skift Take
KLM is succeeding in building a series of digital initiatives that bear the carrier's name, but are attractive to travelers of all airlines and ultimately strength the KLM brand without changes to fares, routes, or amenities.
...Dutch airline KLM is giving consumers a chance to experience the rush of running an international airline....on June 27th KLM will launch Aviation Empire, a Sims-like simulation game for mobile devices.
The game will give users...the chance to virtually run the airline by choosing flight destinations, investing in aircraft and designing airports as time and technology change.
Up Next
Experiences
How Travel Brands Can Seize the ‘Q5’ Opportunity on TikTok
Driven by increased spending on experiences and the digital habits of younger audiences, TikTok has emerged as a key platform for inspiring and shaping travel decisions. Leveraging the platform’s reach early in the year presents a unique opportunity for travel brands to connect with eager travelers.
Sponsored Airlines
This Airline Is Tapping Into India’s Growing Love for Sports and Events-Led Tourism
While Indian carriers have a strong hold in the Indian market, Singapore-based low-cost carrier Scoot is counting on its robust network primarily in the Southeast Asian market and Indians' love for unique experiences to drive growth.
Tour Operators
Airbnb Experiences: New Details Point to Direct Competition with Viator and GetYourGuide
Experiences has traditionally been a low-margin business so Airbnb was never going to make a go of it tethered to a niche offering. The challenge in going mainstream is to maintain some differentiation from rivals.
Airlines
U.S. Safety Regulators Push for Restrictions on Helicopter Traffic Near DCA Following Fatal Crash
The chair of the National Transportation Safety Board said not restricting helicopter traffic around Reagan National was “stronger than an oversight.”
Airlines
Southwest’s Gamble: It’s Now Just Like Every Other Airline
Southwest’s reversal on baggage fees is part of an avalanche of major changes the carrier has made within the past year. Is Southwest catching up to its competition or is it losing its uniqueness?