i heard about this deal months ago, but it wasnt dead set, when i recently heard the news it was set to go ahead, i was surprised. KLM dont seem desperate for money they operate pleanty of money making flights. It also brings up the question why did they just buy a bunch of $200 million 777's for air france basically. Me thinks this is some higher ups seeing a rather nice pay check at the end of it and agreeing to the deal. Shame to see the blue go for good

the name KLM will probably remain the next five years...insiders here believe that afterwards it will all become Air France.

KLM went together with Air France, besically because every airline does it. it's hard to cope with it all alone in these hard times. they also spoke with BA and with Star Alliance members, but Air France was the only one with the same objectives...and it was also looking for a partner. now, they both created the largest airline company in the world!