KONINKLIJKE NEDERLANDSCH-INDISCHE LUCHTVAART MAATSCHAPPIJ (KNILM) DI HINDIA BELANDA TAHUN 1928-1942

Abstract

KNILM introduced airplanes to the civil society of the Dutch East Indies on a broader scale. This study aims to
explain the background of the formation of KNILM as a commercial civil airline, describe the management
system and KNILM management, and explain the social impact of KNILM, focusing on the Dutch East Indies
during 1928–1942. This study uses historical research methods with four stages: topic selection, data
collection, verification, interpretation, and writing. The results of this research are as follows: First, KNILM was
established through the initiative of business entities that received support from the government to facilitate
interinsular connections in the Dutch East Indies and to gain an advantage in colonial political competition.
Second, KNILM was a joint-stock airline. It offered various business services (passenger flights, airmail, air
cargo, and special flights). Third, the existence of KNILM positively impacted various parties; it served people
of various ethnicities, such as Europeans, Chinese, and natives; it also became a catalyst for tourism. In
conclusion, the existence of KNILM had been publicly accepted and brought about social change in the Dutch
East Indies