br br KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has begun one of the most significant fleet-renewal programs in its history by officially retiring its first Boeing 737-800, marking the beginning of the end for an era that spanned several decades.br br The Dutch carrier, a long-time operator of Boeing aircraft, has started the progressive phase-out of nearly 40 jets from the 737 family.br br The first aircraft to leave the fleet was PH-BXK, which served KLM on European routes for almost 25 years. The jet was ferried to Twente Airport, where it will be dismantled by the specialized company AELS.br br According to KLM, both the engines and the auxiliary power unit (APU) have already been removed and will be reused in other aircraft still in operation, extending their service life within the airline.