Air France -KLM CEO Benjamin Smith Confirmed Retirement Via ….

Benjamin Smith Announces Retirement as CEO of Air France–KLM Group

Paris, 2025

In a surprising development that marks the end of a transformative era, Benjamin Smith has officially announced his retirement as Chief Executive Officer of the Air France–KLM Group. The announcement, made via a personal video message posted on the group’s official LinkedIn page and YouTube channel, has sent ripples throughout the aviation industry.

Smith, who has served as CEO since September 2018, is credited with reshaping the fortunes of one of Europe’s largest airline groups. His decision to step down comes after nearly seven years at the helm during a period marked by historic challenges and major strategic milestones.

A Farewell from the Flight Deck

Dressed in a navy blue suit and standing in front of an Air France–KLM aircraft at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, Smith delivered an emotional farewell in a five-minute video message.

> “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together. From rebuilding trust with our staff to leading one of the most ambitious fleet renewal programs in Europe, the journey has been extraordinary,” Smith said. “But every journey must have a destination, and I believe now is the right time for new leadership to take this group into its next chapter.”

He emphasized that the decision was his own, based on a desire to return to his home country of Canada and spend more time with his family.

A Legacy of Resilience and Reform

When Smith took over in 2018, he became the first non-French CEO of the Franco-Dutch aviation group, a move that initially raised eyebrows among labor unions and traditionalists. However, he quickly won respect for his hands-on management style, deep operational knowledge, and diplomatic skills in navigating the group’s complex structure.

Under Smith’s leadership, Air France–KLM:

Weathered the COVID-19 pandemic and returned to profitability by 2023.

Launched an ambitious sustainability plan, including orders for next-generation Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 aircraft.

Repaired often-strained labor relations, particularly with Air France pilot and cabin crew unions.

Increased its stake in other European carriers, such as ITA Airways and Virgin Atlantic.

Solidified its joint ventures across the Atlantic and Asia.

Industry analysts have often credited Smith with giving Air France–KLM “a single strategic voice” for the first time since the 2004 merger of the two airlines.

“Benjamin Smith managed to turn a fragile alliance into a truly integrated aviation group,” said Marianne Delcourt, an analyst with AviationEurope. “He brought clarity and boldness where it was most needed.”

Speculation and Succession

While Smith’s retirement had not been anticipated this year, internal sources indicate that the board of directors has been preparing a succession plan. A formal search for his replacement has already begun, with both internal and external candidates reportedly being considered.

Possible contenders include:

Anne Rigail, CEO of Air France, known for her deep understanding of the French market and operational leadership.

Pieter Elbers, the former KLM CEO who now heads IndiGo Airlines in India but remains well-regarded in European circles.

Patrick Roux, current head of SkyTeam, who has experience managing multinational airline partnerships.

In his message, Smith assured stakeholders that the transition will be “smooth, deliberate, and transparent.”

> “The success of this group is built on people, passion, and purpose,” he said. “And I am confident that the next leader will carry that vision forward.”

Staff and Industry React

Reaction to the news has been swift. In a joint statement, the Air France and KLM workers’ councils praised Smith’s tenure for restoring employee confidence and bringing operational stability. “While we did not always agree on everything, Benjamin Smith earned our respect through action and results,” the statement read.

Air France pilot Louis Morel, who led negotiations during a critical labor dispute in 2019, expressed mixed emotions: “He was a tough negotiator but fair. He genuinely cared about the company and its people.”

Social media lit up within minutes of the announcement, with thousands of current and former employees sharing messages of gratitude. The hashtags #MerciBenjamin and #ThankYouBen quickly trended across platforms in France and the Netherlands.

What’s Next for Benjamin Smith?

Although Smith has not disclosed specific plans for his post-retirement life, sources close to him suggest he may join advisory boards or work on sustainability initiatives in the aviation sector. There is also speculation that he could be approached by private equity firms with investments in travel and logistics.

In his farewell video, Smith hinted at ongoing involvement with the industry, albeit from a different angle.

> “Aviation will always be part of who I am,” he said. “I may be stepping away from the cockpit, but I’m not grounding myself completely.”

Looking Ahead

For Air France–KLM Group, the task now is to maintain the momentum Smith built while navigating ongoing challenges, including rising fuel costs, labor demands, and climate pressures.

A special board meeting has been scheduled for May 15, 2025, during which an interim CEO may be appointed. The group has reassured investors that its strategic plan remains intact and that upcoming summer operations will proceed without disruption.

While it marks the end of a major chapter, many view Smith’s departure as an opportunity for renewal.

> “Benjamin has done the hard work of transformation,” said Dutch aviation consultant Erik van Loon. “Now it’s time for the next leader to take Air France–KLM into a new era of digital and environmental innovation.”