September 20 - October 3, 2014 the historical photo exhibition of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines will take place in the Museum of Ukrainian Icons (12, Desyatynna str.). The exhibition is devoted to KLM 95th anniversary.
This exhibition of KLM historical photos represents the period between 1920-1960, giving a perfect insight into the daring pilots and passengers of early aviation. It shows aspects of maintenance on wooden aircraft, primitive motor testing and the sober office interiors of the years gone by. This unique KLM heritage is stored in the Maria Austria Institute (MAI) in Amsterdam. MAI’s goal is to save, archive, manage and exploit archives of Dutch photographers providing aa valuable collection of images. Nowadays the MAI administers about 50 archives. The KLM photo historical archive is an important and proud addition to Dutch photographic heritage that the MAI cherishes. It is the only company-related archive amongst the individual collections.
The photos capture prominent moments of the first years of the aviation industry, ordinary passengers and unusual situations, members of the Royal family and unknown people, countries, events in the mirror of the history of one of the oldest European airline companies.
KLM is the oldest European airline still working under its original name. The company was founded in 1919 by Albert Plesman, a young pilot, who remained at the head of the airline until 1953. With the support of the Dutch government, Queen Wilhelmina bestowed royal patronage on the airline, which subsequently became known as KLM (Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij) – Royal Dutch Airlines.
The exhibition is opened daily from 10.00 to 18.00. The entrance is free.
