SCHIPHOL, WILLEMSTAD – KLM will continue operating flights to Curaçao despite reports of two near-collisions in the island’s airspace last weekend. The Dutch airline says it is closely monitoring the situation and remains in contact with the relevant authorities.
According to KLM, decisions on whether to continue flying to a specific destination or to avoid certain airspace are always based on the most up-to-date risk assessments available at the time. “Based on the current analyses, there is no reason at this moment to avoid Curaçao’s airspace,” the airline said in a statement.
The comments follow reports of two separate incidents. Last Friday, a JetBlue passenger aircraft was forced to take evasive action in Curaçao’s airspace after encountering a U.S. military aircraft. On Monday, local news outlet curacao.nu reported a second near-miss involving a civilian business jet over the island.
KLM emphasized that safety remains its highest priority. “In carrying out its operations, KLM always places the safety of passengers and employees first,” the airline stated. “Selecting safe and optimal routes is an integral part of our daily operations.”
The airline uses a dedicated risk-analysis system to determine safe flight paths. This system relies on information from a Dutch expert group in which all Dutch airlines and relevant authorities are represented. Through this structure, potential risks are continuously assessed and flight routes are adjusted when necessary.
The developments come against the backdrop of heightened military activity in the region. Curaçao lies close to Venezuela, where the United States has been increasing its military presence in recent weeks. The U.S. military has stated that safety remains a top priority and that the reported incidents are under investigation.
