The historic building in the French capital was gutted by fire on Monday evening (15 April), destroying the spire and much of the roof of the 850-year-old Gothic structure.

Hundreds of firefighters battled the blaze, which broke out at about 6.30pm local time (4.30pm GMT), saving the main structure of the building and its two bell towers.

A fundraising campaign has already raised hundreds of millions for restoration works, with Air France now pledging its support through free travel for those involved and its own voluntary donation fund to help finance the works.

“All Air France and Air France-KLM teams around the world have been deeply affected and saddened since yesterday (15 April),” said the airline in a statement on Tuesday (16 April).

“Following the tragic fire that has ravaged Notre-Dame cathedral in Paris, which is a symbol of French history well known throughout the world, Air France has pledged to provide free flights for those involved in the reconstruction.”

The pledge has been backed by Air France-KLM chief executive Benjamin Smith, chairman Anne-Marie Couderc and Air France chief executive Anne Rigail.

The airline added: “In the days ahead, the Air France-KLM group will set up a voluntary donations fund for its customers to help finance the reconstruction work."