WILLEMSTAD – Dutch airline KLM has implemented additional safety measures for flights to and from Curaçao following two near-miss incidents last Friday and Saturday involving civilian and military aircraft in the airspace around the island. The measures were reported by Dutch public broadcaster NOS.
As part of the new precautions, KLM now requires its aircraft operating on Curaçao routes to keep extra lighting switched on throughout the flight. This includes logo lights and position lights, which are normally used only during takeoff and landing. According to the airline, the continuous use of these lights is intended to improve aircraft visibility and reduce the risk of misunderstandings in airspace where both civilian and military traffic are operating.
The decision follows emergency consultations involving the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Curaçao air traffic control, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), airline industry body IATA, and several international airlines. The talks were prompted by heightened U.S. military activity in the region and growing concerns about airspace safety near Curaçao.
KLM emphasized that safety remains its top priority and stated that it is closely monitoring developments in the region. The airline has not ruled out taking further measures if the situation warrants it.