Did you know that Martinair started with one small airplane and a healthy dose of courage?
This week, we said goodbye to a true pioneer in Dutch aviation: Martin Schröder, the founder of Martinair. At 93 years old, he filed his final flight plan, but his inspiring legacy continues to live on in the history of Dutch aviation.
From KLM pilot to his own boss
As a young pilot at KLM, Martin Schröder was already dreaming of bigger adventures. With the boldness and vision that defined him, he founded Martin's Air Charter in 1958 at the age of 27. From one modest De Havilland Dove, his dream grew into the renowned Martinair - a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for aviation.
Friends in aviation
Thijs Postma and Martin Schröder were close friends, connected by more than just their shared passion for flying. Did you know that Thijs Postma designed the original color scheme for the Martinair planes? Have a look here.
Thanks to Thijs' paintings, we can still enjoy Martin's life's work.
The man behind the legend
Those who knew Martin Schröder speak warmly of his approachability and infectious humor. Despite his success, he remained down-to-earth and accessible. His well-known saying "You need to be lucky and recognize it when it comes your way" still inspires new generations of entrepreneurs.
From one to many wings
Schröder was a visionary who saw and seized opportunities. Under his leadership, Martinair transformed from a modest charter company into a respected name in international aviation. Whether it was holiday charters or air freight, Schröder was always seeking new horizons.
Still an inspiration
Martin showed that with a good idea, some courage, and a lot of passion, you can go a long way. His story is one of: just do it! And that continues to inspire, whether you're in aviation or not.
A final farewell
Martin may no longer be with us, but his spirit lives on. In every Martinair flight, in the stories of people who knew him, and of course in those beautiful paintings by his good friend Thijs.
Thank you, Martin, for showing us that the sky is not the limit - but the beginning!
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"The sky was his home, the world his destination, and through art, his story lives on."