Is KLM a Good Airline? (My Honest Feedback)

As a travel blogger, I have had the pleasure of flying with KLM (Royal Dutch Airlines) on a few occasions.

I wanted to share my honest feedback on the airline and determine if it is a good or bad airline.

Overview of KLM (Royal Dutch Airlines)

Royal Dutch Airlines reviews Pros and Cons
Peter Bakema (GFDL 1.2 or GFDL 1.2, via Wikimedia Commons

KLM is the flag carrier airline of the Netherlands and the oldest airline in the world still operating under its original name.

It was founded in 1919 and is based in Amstelveen, Netherlands.

KLM is a member of the SkyTeam airline alliance and operates in more than 145 destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, and Oceania.

The airline has a fleet of more than 120 aircraft, including the Boeing 787-9, Boeing 777-300ER, Airbus A330-200, Airbus A330-300, Airbus A320-200, Embraer E190, and Fokker 70.

KML Fleet

KML operates a fleet of more than 120 aircraft, including the Boeing 787-9, Boeing 777-300ER, Airbus A330-200, Airbus A330-300, Airbus A320-200, Embraer E190, and Fokker 70.

The airline also operates a fleet of regional aircraft, including the Fokker 50 and Fokker 100.

Pros of Flying KML

High-Quality Aircraft

KML offers a wide range of aircraft that are well-maintained and comfortable.

The planes are equipped with modern amenities such as in-flight entertainment, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.

I have personally flown with KLM on their Boeing 777-300ER, and the experience was great.

The plane was spacious and the seats were comfortable. The in-flight entertainment system was top-notch and had a great selection of movies and TV shows.

Excellent Service

The service provided by KLM is second to none.

The flight attendants are friendly and attentive.

They go out of their way to make sure that all passengers are comfortable and that their needs are met.

On my flight, the flight attendants provided me with a blanket and pillow, and they even offered me a snack and drink.

Wide Range of Destinations

KLM offers a wide range of destinations around the world.

They have flights to over 150 destinations in Europe, North America, South America, Asia, and Africa.

This makes it easy for travelers to find a flight that fits their needs.

Competitive Prices

KLM offers competitive prices on their flights.

They often have great deals and discounts that make it easy for travelers to find a flight that fits their budget.

I recently flew with KLM from Amsterdam to New York and the price was very reasonable.

Excellent Airport Service

KLM offers excellent service at the airport.

The check-in process is quick and efficient, and the staff is friendly and helpful.

The airport lounges are comfortable and offer a variety of amenities such as free Wi-Fi, snacks, and drinks.

Loyalty Program

KLM offers a loyalty program called Flying Blue.

This program rewards frequent flyers with points that can be used to get discounts on future flights.

I recently used my points to get a discount on my flight to New York.

Royal Dutch Airlines reviews Pros and Cons
aeroprints.com, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Cons of Flying KML

Limited Flight Routes

KML has a limited number of flight routes compared to other airlines, which can make it difficult to find a convenient flight.

Despite the fact that KLM has an extensive network of destinations, the number of flights per day is limited, especially for long-haul flights.

This can make it difficult to find a flight that fits your schedule.

FAQs

What is the cost of tickets on KML?

The cost of tickets on KML varies depending on the destination and time of year.

Prices can range from as low as €50 for a one-way ticket to as high as €500 for a round-trip ticket.

It is recommended to check the airline’s website for the most up-to-date prices.

What are the fees for checked baggage on KML?

KML charges a fee for checked baggage.

The fee is based on the number of bags and the weight of the bags.

For domestic flights, the fee is €25 for one bag and €35 for two bags.

For international flights, the fee is €35 for one bag and €45 for two bags.

Does KML have a loyalty program?

Yes, KML has a loyalty program called Flying Blue.

This program offers members rewards and discounts on flights, hotels, car rentals, and more.

Members can earn points when they fly with KML and can use those points to redeem rewards.

What is KML’s baggage allowance?

KML allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item per person.

The carry-on bag should not exceed 56 x 45 x 25 cm and should weigh no more than 12 kg.

The personal item should not exceed 40 x 30 x 15 cm and should weigh no more than 8 kg.

Excess baggage fees may apply for bags that exceed these limits.

Does KML offer any promotions or discounts for booking flights?

KML offers a variety of promotions and discounts for booking flights.

Customers can take advantage of special deals on flights to select destinations, as well as discounts for booking multiple flights at once.

Customers can also save money by signing up for KLM’s frequent flyer program, which offers discounts on flights and other benefits.

Additionally, KLM offers discounts for students, seniors, and members of the military.

What is KML’s policy for changing or canceling flights?

KML offers customers the option to change or cancel their flights.

Customers can change their flights up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time and can cancel their flights up to 72 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customers who cancel their flights will receive a full refund, and those who change their flights will be charged a fee.

Additionally, KLM offers customers the option to purchase a flexible ticket, which allows them to change or cancel their flights without incurring any fees.

How comfortable are the seats on KML’s planes?

KML offers comfortable seating options on its planes.

The airline’s economy class seats are designed to provide maximum comfort, with adjustable headrests and reclining backrests.

The airline also offers more luxurious seating options in its business and first-class cabins, which feature wider seats and additional legroom.

Additionally, KLM offers customers the option to upgrade their seating for an additional fee.

Does KML have in-flight entertainment options?

KML offers in-flight entertainment options for its passengers.

The airline’s planes are equipped with a variety of entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, music, and games.

Customers can access the entertainment options through the airline’s in-flight entertainment system, which is available on select flights.

Additionally, customers can purchase Wi-Fi access to stream content from their personal devices.

Does KML serve meals on its flights?

Yes, KML serves meals on its flights.

Depending on the flight length and the time of day, passengers may be served a meal, snack, or light refreshment.

KML also offers special meals for passengers with dietary restrictions or allergies. These meals must be requested in advance.

Does KML offer WiFi on its flights?

Yes, KML offers WiFi on its flights.

Passengers can purchase WiFi access for their flight, which allows them to stay connected during their journey.

KML also offers a range of entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, and music.

Does KML allow advance seat assignments?

Yes, KML allows passengers to make advance seat assignments.

Passengers can select their seats when they book their flight, or they can make changes to their seat assignments at any time before their flight.

Does KML offer WiFi on its flights?

Yes, KML offers WiFi on its flights.

Passengers can purchase WiFi access for their flight, which allows them to stay connected during their journey.

KML also offers a range of entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, and music.

Does KML allow advance seat assignments?

Yes, KML allows passengers to make advance seat assignments.

Passengers can select their seats when they book their flight, or they can make changes to their seat assignments at any time before their flight.

Does KML allow pets on its flights?

Yes, KML allows pets on its flights.

Passengers can bring their pet on board with them, provided that the pet is in a suitable carrier and meets all applicable regulations.

Pets must also be booked in advance and may incur additional fees.

How friendly and helpful is the airline’s staff?

KML staff are known for their friendly and helpful attitude.

The airline has a long-standing commitment to customer service, and its staff goes out of their way to provide a pleasant experience for travelers.

Passengers consistently report high levels of satisfaction with the staff’s helpfulness and friendliness.

Does the airline offer any special services for travelers with disabilities?

KML offers a range of services for travelers with disabilities.

The airline provides assistance with boarding and disembarking, as well as wheelchair assistance.

KLM also offers a range of in-flight services, including meals tailored to special dietary requirements, and a range of specialized entertainment options.

How easy is it to book a flight with this airline?

Booking a flight with KML is easy and straightforward.

The airline offers a range of online booking options, as well as a dedicated customer service team to assist with any queries.

Passengers can also book flights over the phone or in person at one of the airline’s ticket offices.

What is the airline’s on-time performance record?

KML has an excellent on-time performance record.

The airline consistently ranks among the top airlines for on-time performance, with over 90% of its flights arriving on time.

The airline also has a good record for baggage handling, with fewer than 1% of bags being mishandled.

Does KML have a good safety record?

KML has an excellent safety record and is consistently rated as one of the safest airlines in the world.

According to the AirlineRatings.com annual safety ratings, KLM has been rated as a 7-star airline for the past three years, which is the highest rating possible.

KLM also has a long history of safety, having been in operation since 1919.

The airline has a strong commitment to safety and is constantly investing in the latest safety technologies and procedures to ensure the safety of its passengers.

What is the airline’s policy for lost or damaged luggage?

KML has a comprehensive policy for dealing with lost or damaged luggage.

The airline’s policy states that if a passenger’s luggage is lost or damaged during their journey, they must report the incident to the airline within seven days.

If the luggage is found, KLM will arrange for its return to the passenger.

If the luggage is damaged, KLM will reimburse the passenger for the cost of repairs or will replace the item if it is beyond repair.

How extensive is the airline’s route network?

KML has an extensive route network, with flights to over 145 destinations in more than 70 countries around the world.

The airline operates flights to major cities in Europe, North America, South America, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

KLM also has a wide range of domestic flights within the Netherlands, as well as flights to other European countries.

Does the airline have any partnerships with other airlines or hotel chains?

KML has a number of partnerships with other airlines and hotel chains.

The airline is part of the SkyTeam alliance, which includes 19 other airlines, allowing passengers to benefit from a range of benefits such as shared frequent flyer programs, lounge access, and more.

KLM also has partnerships with several hotel chains, such as Marriott, Accor, and Hilton, allowing passengers to earn points for their stays.

Final Thoughts

My experience with KML was a great one.

An alternative airline to consider is Lufthansa, as both airlines are based in Europe and operate as major carriers.

Here is a video review.

The flights were always on time and the staff were friendly and helpful.

The seats were comfortable and the in-flight entertainment was enjoyable.

The food was delicious and the drinks were plentiful.

Overall, I was very pleased with my experience flying with KLM and would definitely recommend them to others.