AF-KLM’s cargo chief leaves as carrier considers more cuts

More chaos at AF-KLM as cargo chief Erik Varwijk resigns.

Varwijk started his career at KLM 25 years ago, but effective from 1 March will resign as Executive Vice President of Air France-KLM cargo. Rumors of his impending resignation had begun circulating late last year but were dismissed by the carrier.

AF-KLM has yet to announce a replacement, but Marcel de Nooijer, managing director of Martinair, is said to be one favorite. Whether he would want the job – which will reportedly involve winding down Martinair, and negotiating with the pilots before focusing on whatever is left of the group’s cargo business – remains to be seen.

The group is set to make further announcements about cuts as it releases its results in mid-February. KLM has managed a slight win against its French counterparts after it was agreed that subsidiaries’ profits would not be ploughed into group finances – which the Dutch had argued would mean their profits plugging Air France’s debts.

The carrier is also looking to raise cash and last month sold a 2.2% stake in Amadeus €327 million.