Information on KLM Flights

In my opinion, KLM is one of the best airlines in Europe. It’s not flashy, it doesn’t always have the best catering, and it kind of flies under the radar (figuratively of course). But none of that matters because it does the basics really well. It has a vast route network across the globe, frequently good fares, a really nice business class, premium economy and extra space economy, and a great loyalty program. Here’s everything you need to know.

The KLM fleet

KLM has a variety of aircraft types with more new types on the way. The fleet is in something of a transition. You’ll have a somewhat different experience depending on what aircraft you end up with, so it pays to know what you’re booking on.

Long-haul

On long-haul, you’ll find two varieties of 777, two of the 787 Dreamliner, and the A330. From a passenger perspective, the 777 and 787 are very similar, with lie flat seats and direct aisle access except for a few remaining 777-200s which are being refitted now. The newest seats found on the 777 have doors that close off your space from the aisle. It’s not full privacy but it’s a nice addition.

The A330 is the odd one out with a 2x2x2 business class that, while not ideal for solo travelers, is quite okay if you’re flying with someone. The 787 does have a lower cabin altitude meaning over longer flights you’ll feel less dried out and tired, so if there’s a choice I’d pick that. Soon KLM will also be receiving A350s, but they’re not in service just yet.

Short-haul

KLM has recently added brand new A321NEOs to its single-aisle lineup and while they look great and have fresh new interiors, keep in mind they’ve configured them with a very dense seat layout. On the other hand, the bulk of the European fleet is still made up of mostly aging 737s, but I far prefer these as they haven’t crammed in as many seats.

Then there is the Embraer fleet of regional jets for service mostly to smaller cities in Europe and for me, these are the absolute winners on short-haul because of the 2x2 configuration meaning no middle seats.

Onboard experience

KLM’s onboard product these days has something to match every budget, with a new premium economy that can offer very good value, as well as an extra-legroom economy section that can buy you some nice extra space for just a small charge.

I’ve also never met an unfriendly KLM flight attendant, and that is a big plus. The cabin crew are usually a pleasure to interact with. For me that more than makes up for the fact that the food tends to be pretty average including in premium cabins. Though they do make an effort at offering vegan and healthier options on the menu – so you don’t have to order a special meal to avoid eating meat.

Long-haul business class

KLM’s business class food is usually just okay, and if you’re in it for the dining I might suggest flying sister airline Air France instead. However it does the job. There’s a typical bar offering but again it’s nothing to write home about unless you’re really into the Dutch gin known as genever. One thing I’d like to see more of is non-alcoholic options like mocktails. That’s something many airlines are embracing but on KLM you’ll find none.

Possibly my favorite perk of KLM business is the Delft Blue ceramic house given to each passenger on every flight. It is such a nice collectible item. Fun fact: these houses have genever inside, but you’re not supposed to drink it. KLM did that because back in the day when they started offering the houses, regulators said they weren’t allowed to give gifts to passengers. So KLM put a bit of liquor in it and called it a beverage service.

A word of warning: KLM has now gone the unfortunate route of charging for seat selection even in business, unless you have elite status in the Flying Blue program.

Long-haul premium economy

Premium economy is a new addition to KLM’s offering and it’s really nice especially if you’re traveling with someone. Seats are pretty much industry-standard with some extra width and legroom and an upgraded service in a small mini-cabin. Plus you get a basic amenity kit. On daytime flights especially, this can be a great way to travel with more comfort and not break the bank.

Long-haul economy

Economy is economy but KLM’s long-haul offer isn’t bad at all, if a bit cramped in the back. You’ll get personal TVs with a decent selection of entertainment, pillows and blankets (though there seems to be a shortage of pillows) and a hot meal plus full bar. You’ll also get a bottle of water. Overall I find it to be a nice, good value service.

Where KLM really shines is with the Economy Comfort section, which basically is a more expensive seat with extra legroom at the front of the cabin. You get an additional 10cm or 4 inches and that really makes a difference.

European business

On most flights in European business you’ll be getting an economy seat but with the middle blocked for extra space. You’ll also enjoy more legroom in most cases and a more elaborate meal service and full bar, plus priority everything at the airport and lounge access. I think the bulkheads are great because I like a window seat and it’s relatively easy to get up from your seat even if there’s someone in the aisle seat.

Note that on KLM’s Embraer fleet there are no seats blocked in business meaning you’ll have a seatmate just like you would in economy. However the lack of middle seats and better legroom kind of makes up for this.

European economy

The most impressive thing about European economy on KLM is that they still offer a free drink (including beer and wine) and usually a snack or sandwich, even on shorter legs. This is in stark contrast to most major European airlines who have mostly gone the buy-on-board route. It’s been discussed that Air France and KLM both are considering ending this practice, but for now, it’s a great differentiator.

Otherwise, it is as you’d expect – no entertainment, though there are usually some power outlets, if not the 110V kind then at least USB-A. And you can count on friendly and efficient service.

Is Economy Comfort worth it?

If you ask me, the extra-legroom Comfort seats at the front of most economy cabins are absolutely worth the extra cost. Sometimes it’s not even that much. The extra 4 inches of legroom on long-haul makes all the difference from it feeling cramped to feeling like you have some room to breathe.

On European flights the legroom boost is a little less pronounced, but I always find it to be noticeably more spacious. I’m definitely a buyer of Economy Comfort on just about any flight if I’m in economy.

Inflight Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi on KLM is pretty variable. Most if not all long-haul aircraft now have it installed but whether the connection will be usable or not is another question. On a European flight, you never know. A relatively small number of 737s have satellite Wi-Fi installed, but you can’t count on it. It’s one downside to KLM that if you need to be online to be productive inflight, it’s never a sure thing. Best prepare accordingly.

The good news: KLM makes it relatively easy to request a refund for your Wi-Fi pass online if it doesn’t perform as expected.

Loyalty program

Flying Blue, the combined loyalty program of Air France and KLM which is also used by a handful of other airlines, is a really good program and it’s worth signing up even if you have another favorite program in Skyteam. Why? They often have good value redemptions, and you can transfer points into Flying Blue from various credit card rewards programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards. Redemptions do incur some fuel surcharges, but they tend to be relatively low.

Tip: Look out for the monthly list of “promo rewards” where AF-KLM offers heavily discounted award flights to a select list of cities that are constantly changing. It’s not uncommon to save 50% off the normal price.

Air France vs KLM

Air France and KLM are part of the same group and share a number of things but maintain separate brands that have different value propositions. My advice is always this: if you value food quality and like a certain elegance in flight, choose Air France. However if you value friendly service and a more relaxed attitude (plus in my opinion, a superior hub to transit through), KLM is a better bet. This is all variable, and somewhat subjective, but that’s my take for what it’s worth.