KLM's Big Freeze: When Ice Becomes a Problem

Amsterdam, Netherlands — KLM is grappling with a severe shortage of a critical de-icing fluid, compounded by relentless cold weather that has led to widespread flight cancellations.

The Crisis Unfolds

• High Demand: KLM's planes require a special fluid to remove ice, and the airline is consuming approximately 85,000 liters daily.
• Non-Stop Operations: 25 trucks are working around the clock to apply the fluid, a mix of heated water and glycol, to clear snow and ice from aircraft before takeoff.
• Supply Chain Disruptions: The shortage began last Friday, with KLM using the fluid continuously. However, delays from suppliers threaten to exacerbate the situation.

Efforts to Mitigate the Crisis

• Emergency Measures: KLM has dispatched workers to Germany to procure additional supplies, though the timeline for delivery remains uncertain.
• Industry-Wide Impact: Other European airlines are also facing similar challenges. While Schiphol Airport has sufficient runway de-icing fluid, KLM's aircraft operations remain severely disrupted.

The Fallout

• Flight Cancellations: On Tuesday alone, KLM canceled at least 300 flights, leaving passengers stranded.
• Weather Forecast: The cold weather is expected to persist, with more snow and strong winds on the horizon, further complicating operations.

Conclusion

KLM is striving to resolve the issue, but for now, passengers are left dealing with the fallout. This crisis underscores the importance of adequate supply chains, especially during adverse weather conditions.