Since arriving in the US I’ve discovered that Washington, DC is beyond being just a ‘city.’ Washington is many things to many different people. To some it is the iconic symbol of America, to others it represents where all of the laws and regulations that guide the country take place, and to others still it is the cultural capital of the country or finally just the ‘Capitol.’

Previous to moving to the US I regret to admit that I had never had the opportunity to visit the Capital city. I had heard much about it, but it is a totally different experience.

Washington is a district unto itself. It is difficult for many to understand that it is a city-state itself as opposed to being just a city or just a state. I have learned since then that is both more than a city and a state, with diverse and interesting populace. Nowhere else in the country are individuals as interested in discussing politics, which I do find to be very interesting.

Interestingly enough for a ‘relatively’ small city (state), it is also one of the most international communities that I’ve discovered so far in the US, from the multiple embassies to the international companies such as IMF and World Bank and the headquarters for many international organizations, to the governmental organizations. Something that works out well for us.

With such a demand for an international market, how can we not be the best fit to service everyone’s needs? People can sometimes forget, but we have very strong networks beyond Paris and Amsterdam. In fact we’re often the best way to get to Africa, the Middle East and India (Europe is of course implied). Which is in part how we’ve remained successful in the Washington market for so many years.  For Air France we’ve been around since 1962 and with KLM we’re just celebrating our 20 year anniversary.  We’re dedicated to the Washingtonians and to providing them the best in service with the most possible options. 

Examples? Washington is one of only five gateways in the US where passengers can experience First Class on their way to Paris. Washington was the second city in the US where Air France introduced our new Premium Economy product, Premium Voyageur (just last month!) for Air France. Continued premium service on-board – we’re the only airline you can take where you have complimentary Champagne in all classes of service (just as one example). With KLM you can choose from three different classes of service as we also just introduced our enhanced economy product: “Economy Comfort.” On-board, complimentary beverages are available in every class of service. Plus, with three flights to choose from each day – you can choose the flight that best fits your schedule.   

So Washingtonians, we’re looking forward to welcoming you on-board.