Air France — French flag carrier and major international airline

History and development

Founded in the early 20th century through a series of mergers and national consolidations, Air France grew into a modern flag carrier with a broad international network. In the 2000s the airline joined forces with the Dutch carrier KLM under a parent holding company, creating one of Europe's largest airline groups while maintaining separate brands and operating certificates.

Operations and hubs

The airline's principal base and administrative centre are located at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport; its corporate headquarters and many long‑haul operations are organized from that hub near Paris. Air France runs a mixed fleet of wide‑ and narrow‑body jet airliners and operates a dense European schedule alongside intercontinental routes.

Services, fleet and alliances

Air France offers multiple cabin classes, frequent‑flyer benefits through the Flying Blue program, and integrated cargo services. Its fleet includes aircraft from major manufacturers and is maintained to global safety standards. As part of a major airline alliance, it coordinates connections, codeshares and reciprocal benefits with partner carriers.

Notable facts and role

• Serves as France's principal international airline and an important link between Europe and other regions.
• Part of a large Franco‑Dutch group that combines resources while preserving national brands.
• Plays a significant role in tourism, trade and airline network connectivity for Paris and France.

For current routes, fleet details and corporate information consult official sources and recent publications provided by the airline and the Air France‑KLM group.