KLM today, on its 106th anniversary, added a new Delft Blue miniature house to its collection. The 106th house is Villa Rameau in Leiden — the former sexton’s residence next to the Pieterskerk, where the Pilgrims stayed before departing for America aboard the Mayflower in 1620. The choice is a clear nod to partner Delta, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Delta’s Perry Cantarutti traveled from the U.S. to receive the miniature.
With this selection, KLM not only celebrates its own milestone as the world’s oldest airline still operating under its original name but also highlights the 106-year transatlantic connection between the Netherlands and the United States. The anniversary celebration paid special attention to this long-standing bond. The Pilgrims’ journey is seen as the historic beginning of the transatlantic relationship—a connection KLM has continued for more than a century. As part of the Air France-KLM Group and in a joint venture with Delta Air Lines, the airline carries millions of passengers each year between Europe and fifteen U.S. destinations. This connectivity significantly contributes to economic growth and prosperity on both sides of the ocean.
Marjan Rintel, President & CEO of KLM, emphasized the symbolism during the unveiling: “With the presentation of Villa Rameau as our 106th Delft Blue miniature, we celebrate not only our birthday but also the power of connection and resilience.” She noted that these values reflect both the history of the house and the Pilgrims, as well as the essence of KLM itself. “In these turbulent times, this house symbolizes the importance of connection—a small token with a big story about how we continue to build the future of aviation through innovation.”
An in-depth interview with Marjan Rintel and Bas Gerressen will appear soon in Summit.
