keith_w flew KLM World Business Class, on a B777-200ER (18/05/2012 10:01)

My wife and I flew from Manchester to Taipei via Amsterdam and back with KLM in business class.

After making the booking and reading the reviews on this and other sites I was very concerned that we'd made a mistake but I have to say we had an extremely pleasant flight.

Much is made here about the 170 degree beds, but we both found them extremely comfortable and both slept well on both long haul legs. Maybe never having travelled on lie-flat beds I have nothing to compare against, but we had absolutely no complaints regarding the seats.

The food was top quality; although slightly better on the way out of Amsterdam than the return while the cabin crew were everything we wanted - pleasant, friendly, welcoming and efficient.

kempinski flew KLM Economy, on a B777-200ER (03/04/2012 02:03)

This flight that I took is the short haul leg on the return journey to AMS (Schiphol) from CGK (Jakarta) via KUL (Kuala Lumpur). The crew, normally changed in KUL and thus, is the same crew that is flying KUL-CGK leg before.

Check-in - I arrived at the airport 2 hours before scheduled departure of 6.50pm. I didn't have internet access whilst in Jakarta so I had to queue at economy check-in line (those who did web check-in can use World Business Class lane to drop their bag).

KLM does not provide check-in kiosks at CGK which is surprising as in KUL, KLM ground staff forced every passenger who had not checked-in online to check-in at the kiosks as they only open counter for baggage drop-off. Fortunately, the economy class queue line was not that long.

I paid Jakarta airport tax Rp150,000 at check-in counter and proceed to immigration.

Boarding>> From the boarding lounge, the KLM plane was already at the gate.

It was a Boeing B777-200ER Nahanni National Park with registration PH-BQN. Boarding was done in orderly fashion and Jakarta airport has efficient boarding lounge where two gates used for boarding was located on the opposite site of the room, and thus no pushing or squeezing when the boarding by row number for economy class was being announced.

I was seated in 15C, one row behind economy comfort class in the middle cabin. Wide selection of newspaper is available in English, Dutch, and Indonesian. I was impressed by the available choice.

The Seat>> Economy cabin (as well as Economy Comfort) was configured in 3-3-3 abreast seating. The seat is featuring AVOD PTV with smaller screen than KLM's B777-300ER which is using the newer and wider screen.

TV console is located at the armrest instead on the back seat as those at B777-300ER. However, those wish to be seated on the third seat in every section must be careful: KLM placed the IFE box under the third seat (i.e. seats with label "C", "F" and "J"). This reduce the space to put your feet or extra luggage that you can put under the seat in front of you. It is ok for short haul, but definitely an obstruction for long haul flight especially for standard built man or bigger.

Seat pitch is adequate at 31-inch and those at economy comfort enjoy 35-inch seat pitch.

The service>> As usual, service before take off including distribution of earphones. I like the practice at KLM where they handed out the new earphones to every passenger in a sealed bag which later can be brought back by the passengers in economy.

It is not noise cancelling, but the size is perfect to bring out of the plane and can be used widely in any gadget (it has 2-pin jack, but you can store 1-pin and it's compatible to be plugged to any 1-pin gadget).

Purser was also announced that he would start inflight shopping after takeoff before the meal. I was very impressed with the efficiency and work from the whole crew on this KLM flight as it was TOTALLY OPPOSITE experience from my inbound flight on the same flight where the crew are grumpy, rude, slow, and totally unapologetic.

The purser especially, a Dutch man, was extremely efficient and make sure that everything was done efficiently. He browse through the cabin several time, attending to every passenger needs, including doing hands-on job to offer inflight shopping. I gladly bought few items from the inflight shopping.

Meal service>> I ordered a special meal, so my meal arrives first before everybody else. The meal cart rolled short after and everyone was handed out the meal tray too. It is impressive that KLM do serve hot meal on short haul flight as competitor who also using stopover on intercontinental flight only serves snack.

Drink service was offered and feature wide range of beverages; beer to wine, juice to sodas. Coffee/tea service followed shortly after cabin crew clear the meal tray.

We still have plenty of time before landing while on the other KLM flight, the crew was just barely have enough time to clear coffee cups by the time of landing yo give you the comparison on how efficient the crew on this flight performed.

IFE>> KLM has sufficient selection of movies, music, and short films on the IFE system. It was not overly as wide as Emirates, but it is sufficient to keep someone entertained for a 14-hour journey.

I particularly like the music selection with ample collection of Dutch and English songs. The TV screen was not touch-screen as in B777-300ER, but the console is responsive enough and easy to use.

Arrival>> We arrived at KUL on time at 9.50pm. The airport is pretty relaxed at this hour as there is only few intercontinental flight departures scheduled to leave.

Shops are getting ready to close at 10pm. Immigration was deserted so one can get through within minutes.

However, baggage claim is a totally different story, it tool another 30mins before the first bag arrived and due to loads of passengers who disembarked at KUL, I have to wait another 40mins before my bag appeared. I'm not impressed with the work of KUL baggage handlers this time.

Verdict>> Flying KLM was like a gambling. On this flight, I had a wonderful flight experience as the crew performed to the extreme beyond excellent: where else you can get full hot meal, inflight shopping, and good selection of IFE for only 2 hour journey with a service that is on par with Ritz Carlton legendary standard? Even LCC can't do that!

I would like to thank the crew on this flight as they make me looking forward to fly KLM again and hopefully served by them again!

HYC.bigtimeflyer flew KLM Economy, on a B747-400 (24/02/2012 03:05)

KLM

I'm a person who flies quite a bit, and my total destination was London for a vacation. We chose KLM out of curiosity, and was NOT disappointing at all!

Boarding, though it took a little while (Since it was LAX) but absolutely no problem. When I got in the plane, it was a friendly, relaxed, and not the uptight, uncomfy Economy class feeling. Seats were great, designed by recaro, I believe, and slept well on my long flight to Schipol AMS. The shorter flight of AMS-London KL1009 was also excellent for a short haul flight.

Food on both flights was simple, wonderful, and perfectly portioned. The service aboard the plane was relaxing, friendly and one of the stewards and I started up conversations about society and etc etc HAHA.

KLM is one of the BEST airline companies I've ever chose and I recommend it to anyone! The business man, the family, or the one looking for a GREAT TIME! Choose KLM!

kempinski flew KLM Economy, on a B777-300ER (02/02/2012 15:23)

Flight KL0809/AF8399
Aircraft: Boeing B777-300ER PH-BVB (Nationaal Park Fulufjället)
Seat: 38K
Route: KUL-CGK (Kuala Lumpur International - Jakarta Soekarno Hatta)
Departure time: 1710, Arrival time: 1810 (2 hours flight)

Check-in>> all passengers departing from Kuala Lumpur need to do online check-in or kiosk check-in as KLM counters at the airport only handle baggage drop-off. There are plenty of check-in kiosks (since KLM has integrated their system into common check-in kiosk at KLIA) and the ground staff will make sure you're holding a boarding pass before queuing for baggage drop. Baggage drop counters open from 3 hours before scheduled departure time.

Immigration>> Immigration is always a breeze at KLIA as there are plenty of immigration counter available for foreign passport holders. There will be a security check after immigration before entering airside area.

Holding lounge>> The flight departs from Gate C4 which is at the satellite terminal. Passenger must take an aerotrain which link the main terminal building (MTB) with the satellite terminal (Gates C). Boarding was printed at 16.35 for 17.10 departure. There is a second security check prior to entering the gate area.

Boarding commenced slightly late than scheduled as gate agents are still busy checking-in the passengers - both who are originating from Kuala Lumpur and those transiting from Amsterdam.

Boarding was done in the following order: family with young children, elderly, and wheelchair-bound passengers, followed by World Business Class and Skyteam Elite members, and economy class passengers board according to seat row numbers starting from the rear of the plane.

Which seat to choose>> Other than economy comfort, bulkhead seat and seats near emergency exit rows, other seats are regular economy class seat with limited pitch and recline. The economy class of B777-300ER is configured as 3-4-3 layout. It is interesting to note that seats at column C and K has IFE box underneath the seat and it definitely reduce the storage compartment underneath the seat in front. One might want to avoid these seats for a long haul trip.

The flight>> Boarding completed shortly before 17.10 and the plane taxi down the runway and waiting for its take off slot. Immediately we were in the air and a welcome video was played immediately. Service began with flight attendants distributing earphones and immigration cards.

Meal service only commenced after 30 minutes in the air together with drink service. Coffee/tea service followed together with the meal clearance.

Service>> The service was so slow it almost took the entire flying duration of 1 hour and 35mins in the air to serve 390 economy class passengers. Also, an attempt to summon flight attendant by pressing the call button went ignored for the duration of the flight. Such slow and inattentive service left the whole experience to be abysmal at best.

In-flight entertainment>> The personal video screens on B777-300ER are of the latest generation with wider screen and personal console which is stored on the back of the seat. The selection of entertainment is pretty extensive and deemed sufficient to cover the long haul flight.

Amenities>> During stopover at Kuala Lumpur, the cabin is not well looked-after. Not all seat pocket is replenished with inflight magazine (Holland Herald) and no newspaper selection in the boarding gate left passenger with only PTV as sole source of entertainment.

Arrival>> The plane had to make few circles before landed at Jakarta due to runway congestion. The plane touched down shortly after 18.10 (scheduled arrival time) and it took another 15mins to park at the gate. Immigration at Jakarta was quite a breeze but it took another hour for my checked bag to arrive at the belt.

Verdict>> This short haul hop between KUL and CGK is popular among leisure travelers from Malaysia and Indonesia as it is one that provide cheap tickets. However, the service particularly on this KLM flight is very very lacking in terms of speed, attentiveness, and courteousness. Slow baggage delivery at Jakarta airport is another aspect whereby KLM need to observe for future improvement.

5n1013221 flew KLM Economy, on a B777-300ER (14/11/2011 22:15)

Klm is by far the worst airline I've been on.

The customer service, if it deserves to be called that was just horrible. The attendent was very rude and the supervisor wasn't any better. I will never fly with them again.

mgerard flew KLM World Business Class, on a B747-400 (10/11/2011 03:07)

I fly KLM quite frequently and while it's not exactly Qatar or Etihad in it's level of service, the service is comfortable, friendly, reliable and efficient. There is a friendly predictability in the overall product and in the flurry of intercontinental travel, that is a good thing.

The seats are not full flat, but I have always been able to sleep very well on flights. I sleep in the semi cradled position and I find that's the best way to sleep in their seats. The full flat out position hits me in the wrong places.

The entertainment is fine. Food is good and basic. The flight attendants are friendly and engaged. The planes are clean and well cared for - though the 747-400 may not be the newest. The baggage delivery has always been fast (I am Platinum however). Lastly, their Business Class fares are a good value. I fly over 150,000 miles/year and do a lot on KLM. It's been a really pleasant experience.

The only big issue I have with them is boarding at Schiphol. They really need to let Business Class passengers or elite levels find a way to the jet bridge. So many people are blocking the way that you can't get around the Main cabin passengers so we can board first.

AlbertoZavala flew KLM Economy, on a B777-200ER (30/10/2011 02:33)

Very Confortablet and a good service and food

HappytobeSilver flew KLM World Business Class, on a B777-200ER (26/10/2011 15:21)

Recently flew form Cape Town to Amsterdam with KLM on the 777-200 and then onwards to Edinburgh on a 737-700.

Shared lounge at CPT which was busy (wouldn't liked to have tried to find a seat if there had been more than one flight leaving at that time) but had a reasonable selection of drinks and both hot and cold snacks.

No priority boarding for business class passengers however once boarded my wife and I were offered a glass of chilled champagne.

Supper was served soon after take off and we enjoyed the beef, potatoes and assorted vegetables. There was not a great variety of inflight drinks served but we both found something to quench our thirst. A hot breakfast was served about 1 1/2 hours before landing which consisted of real orange juice (with 'bits' in), a fruit smoothie, cornflakes and an omelette- very tasty.

The only disappointment with this flight was the seat- comfortable enough for sitting but not lie flat and I kept slipping down while trying to sleep.

Our connecting flight to Edinburgh left on time. We were only 4 pax in business and during the flight a good selection of drinks were offered in addition to a particulary tasty chicken sandwich on a wholemeal roll (a vegetarian option was also available).

The staff on both flights were excellent in their friendliness and in the courtesy with which they offered the inflight service.

Richard_K flew KLM Economy, on a B747-400 (06/10/2011 18:07)

Departed 2 hours late, but a good flight. Seated 60H. Good meals and service. On the flight I did some work on the laptop, but pitch is just a tad tight for comfortable working.

Two minor issues. The junior cabin attendant was a little too informal for my liking. And while listening to the on-board radio every time the announcements came on I had a loud beep in my ears.

Richard_K flew KLM Economy (short haul), on a B737-300 (30/09/2011 10:33)

Coming from Vaasa, a small rural airport, had to get my boarding card at Stockholm from a transfer desk. But KLM has no transfer desk; you can go to the gate direct. Well, took a *&%$ load of walking to figure that out! Service at the desk was perfect, certainly when they called me back to give me another seat.

In 29C and no-one in 29A+29B, I was a happy bunny spacewise. Boarding was perfect on time. Cabin staff was polite, but also a bit in 'auto pilot' mode. Food served were 2 sandwiches and a cookie. Not bad, but also not to write home about.

Landed at Schiphol well ahead of time, but apparently somewhere near Den Helder. From the runway to the gate took about 20 - 25 minutes! Suitcases arrived on the furthest bagage belt they could find as well. Conclusion: good plane, flight and staff okay, airports performance poor.

sander1985 flew KLM Economy (short haul), on a B737-900 (09/08/2011 13:51)

Flight from Amsterdam to Barcelona. Very smooth flight, great cabin crew. We got a sandwich and 2 drinks. Landed on time. We were seated at row 4, wich had plenty of legroom.

sander1985 flew KLM Economy (short haul), on a B737-900 (08/08/2011 17:18)

Flight from Amsterdam to Barcelona.

sander1985 flew KLM Economy (short haul), on a Cityhopper Fokker 70 (08/08/2011 17:15)

Flight from Dusseldorf to Amsterdam. Flight was delayed by 1H30

Swissdiver flew KLM Economy (short haul), on a B747-400 (05/08/2011 06:07)

AMS - BKK in Economy for 4 of us, 2 on exit rows (extra cost), 2 right behind.

Boarding was OK for us, but we were allowed to board first given my frequent flyer status.

The seat: this is the big drawback of the flight: KLM has refurbished it's B747s so they now all have individual screens but the size is ridiculous. On the exit row, we could hardly sit as the seat is really narrow (OK, I am 6"4 but not that large... And my son is 6"3 and slim!). Behind us, the legrom is minimal although the seat is slightly larger (on exit rows, the screen is in the armrest). I tried the "economy comfort" seat: same width, slightly more legroom (and same regular economy food and service). Not worth IMHO the EUR 150 extra per leg.

Food: Choice was displayed in details on the IFE (in flight entertainment system): nice. But 3 choices were displayed while only two were available... Food (chicken green curry) was good. A breakfast was served 2 hours before arrival.

Service: great! Snacks available in the kitchen, water and juice served every tow hours. Nice flight attendants: thumb up!

IFE: good choice of movies on demand (VOD) including very recent ones. Screens ok although not touch screens.

Last but not least, KLM.com is well done when buying but also managing the bookings.

All together a good flight (and connecting at AMS (Amsterdam airport) was quite efficient) for a reasonable price.

Swissdiver flew KLM Economy, on a B747-400 (05/08/2011 05:33)

fbindoff flew KLM Economy (short haul), on a B737-300 (03/08/2011 07:28)

KLM may not be on the top when it is compared to airlines such as qatar and fly emitates, but they everything you need to have a quick, easy and pleasant flight. My flight was both comfortable and easy. Check-in is very easy as you can do it a day in advance, which makes baggage drop quick! boarding went without problems and the flight itself is very pleasant. All in all KLM is a very good airline!

TominScotland flew KLM European Business Class, on a A330-200 (25/07/2011 20:33)

This review relates to the Amsterdam - Kigali - Entebbe service, which continues back to Amsterdam. I left at Entebbe.

My journey started in Glasgow, aboard a 737 on a beautiful early morning. Surprised to hear about bad weather in Amsterdam - strong winds restricting runway access so we were told to expect an hour's delay which shrunk to 20 minutes. Relaxed in the adequate KLM Crown Lounge at Schipol and then headed to the flight. Boarding as a Platinum Card holder was fast and I was seated in my Economy Comfort seat before the bulk of Economy passengers boarded.

It is worth commenting on Economy Comfort because it has been, unfairly, compared unfavourably to the Premium Economy product of other airlines such as BA or QF. This it is patently not a valid comparison but no claim is made that it is!! Most importantly, the premium that is paid is minimal compared to other airlines PE product. The price for a seat in the Economy Comfort zone is from EUR 60 to 150 per one way, depending on the duration of the flight. If you are a Flying Blue Platinum member or if you travel on a fully flexible Economy ticket, you can get a seat in the Economy Comfort zone free of charge. Flying Blue Gold members and SkyTeam Elite Plus members of our partner airlines receive a 50% discount. Flying Blue Silver members pay 25% less. With my card, I was automatically seated in this zone, comprising 4 rows of 2-4-2 and one row of 2-2 at the front on the A330. Economy Comfort Zone gives you up to 10 cm (4 inches) of extra legroom and up to double the reclining angle. This does make a significant difference for general comfort and makes working with a laptop easy. I was seated in 12B, an aisle seat, and my neighbour slept through to Kigali so I was not disturbed.

Departure was delayed by one hour because there were not enough Greek air traffic controllers on duty!! Evidence that the cuts are starting to bite?? In the event we made up most of the time en route to Kigali and actually arrived in Entebbe on time. KLM's catering was surprisingly good - Economy Comfort have the same as the rest of the cabin. My lunch was cous cous salad and Chicken Tangine (a much better choice than Vegetarian Pasta) - confirming my general preference for a spicy option in the air, if one is available. Desert was a tasty lemon cheesecake. Ice cream was served half way there and a snack of pizza and fruit shortly before landing in Kigali.

The A330 offers seatback IFE but I either work or read on flights so did not use it beyond Flight Tracking. No indication that KLM knows that Sudan is now two countries - hardly a surprise. However, we also flew over Titograd in the former Yugoslavia which has been called Podgorica since 1992 - wake up, KLM!!

Passengers continuing to Entebbe could not deplane in Kigali so the aircraft was serviced while we walked around etc - not an ideal way of doing things. Amsterdam-bound passengers then boarded and we were airborne again for the 45 minute hop to Uganda.

Immigration at Entebbe has improved beyond recognition since my last visit two years ago and I was through in 10 minutes, having paid for my visa on arrival ($50). My luggage was first out and I was in a car to Kampala within 25 minutes of landing. All in all a good experience and a seating arrangement in Economy Comfort which, if you don't have a Platinum card, is well worth the small extra cost.

TominScotland flew KLM Economy (short haul), on a B777-300ER (25/07/2011 14:15)

basselh flew KLM Economy, on a A330-200 (05/06/2011 10:02)

Bad experience. Seats are cramped and very uncomfortable, especially for a long haul flight.

alwaysinclub flew KLM Economy Comfort, on a A330-200 (02/06/2011 14:46)

In summary - very poor given the competition from Europe to Dubai. I was traveling with my family connecting on the AMS-DXB service. It is a night flight and we were flying economy. We were boarded in the first group (because of the children and pushchair!) and proceeded to our seats at the rear of the first economy cabin. The seats are the most uncomfortable I have ever sat in and get even worse when the person in-front reclines their seat. I just could not get comfortable. On top of this, the cabin was so cold in our section and our request for extra blankets was denied!
Quite frankly, with the average food, despicably poor IFE (poor small screen) and inattentive service, I would avoid this airline at all costs!

SirJohn flew KLM World Business Class, on a B777-200ER (27/02/2011 20:23)

This was a flight from Singapore to Amsterdam, last week. This flight originates in Denpasar, arriving in Singapore around 23.00 hrs for take off at 01.15 hrs to AMS. To catch it therefore, one has either had to pay for an extra hotel night (or very late check-out) OR face several hours in the lounge which KLM shares with several other airlines. This is a depressing lounge, crowded, not very clean, offering dreadful food (and not much of it) plus a mediocre red and acidic white wine - choice of two of each only. It does not set one up for a long flight.
Boarding was a 'free-for-all' scramble with the "Gate Closing" notice being flashed up more than 45 minutes before take off.
Presumably because of the hour, dinner was short, sharp and less than appetising - a real disappointment after the privations of the lounge. By contrast, the wines were of decent quality and were liberally served. Without more ado, the lights were dimmed and the agony of trying to sleep began. The seat configuration is 2-3-2 and the window-seat occupant is effectively trapped as soon as the adjacent seat is reclined. The seat is advertised as "lie-flat - at 170º", clearly a contradiction. I doubt if my seat, in row 1, made it to even 170º. It was almost impossible to relax as the leg-rest sagged thus dropping the feet to about 30 cms below head level. The sitting position is good, but with another idiosyncrasy - it is very difficult to find the headphone jack and even more difficult to connect the phones: it has to be done by touch because it is out of view!
Breakfast has to be ordered the night before, even before dinner, so that trays can be prepared by seat number. Apart from breads and cereals, you opt for a "sweet" or "savoury" meal. In the event, I settled for cereal, yoghourt and a roll as both the hot dishes were equally unpalatable. Cabin crew members were brisk and efficient, but lacked warmth - except for the purser who came round twice during the flight for a chat.
We were on time into AMS and the staff in the arrivals lounge were welcoming and efficient. Overall, it was a mixed experience: not in the same league as a flight on SIA for example, but costing considerably less.

AlbertoZavala flew KLM Economy, on a B777-200ER (15/01/2011 19:23)

The best in all KLM

JanhiddeKersten flew KLM European Business Class (27/12/2010 01:22)

Buy econ class never use this. Waist of money. discount airline of air france is THE klm

claire715 flew KLM World Business Class, on a B777-200ER (07/11/2010 06:16)

No shells housing the seats,makes me feel not enough privacy .legroom is enough.but kind of narrow in term of width.. meal is simple ,not qualify enough for business class.but the service is good.. .IFE screen is small..overall , in this route, they use very basic product..

feddege flew KLM Economy, on a B747-400 (26/08/2010 10:35)

August 14, 2010, Los Angeles-Amsterdam, 4:30PM

Worst flying experience of my life: after a few hours I've been literally soiled by a steward who threw on me a tray full of 20/30 orange juice glasses. Completely wet and sticky, head to feet!

They told me these things frequently happens, gave me some very little towels to clean myself (!), steward offered me his own jogging suit to change my clothes while they were"drying" and at the end of the flight gave me a piece of paper with which I could have been reimbursed for laundry if I will present it to a KLM office along with the laundry receipt.

After all the embarrassment, the discomfort and the annoyance the were offering a 5 euros charity!!!

I told them I would have not accepted this kind of insult, I usually take to the laundry my clothes after wearing them, orange juice or not.

Miserable manners, KLM!

alwaysairbound flew KLM World Business Class, on a B777-200ER (10/07/2010 20:25)

This was perhaps the most disappointing business class product I have encountered. I travel long haul on a weekly basis. i flew LHR-JFK via AMSTERDAM with KLM. Poor quality fruit beverages (from concentrate), poor quality meat in the meals, poor seat comfort and an overwhelmingly hot cabin with the thermostat set at 27?C - i kid you not. There were no individual air vents (gaspers). It was unbearable. The lounge in Schippol on my return flight was overcrowded and i ended up purchasing lounge access in another lounge in order to have a shower before my connecting flight. Most disappointing was the seat. Not because it was not a lie-flat bed, but simply because it was uncomfortable and cumbersome. The cabin crew were dismissive, and a little bewildered when midway through the flight i asked them to find me a seat in Economy. I stayed in economy for three hours, where, frighteningly the seat was way smaller but way more comfortable, and the service was outstanding with tastier, better presented meals. i would travel KLM in Economy without question, however there World Business Class was nothing short of appalling and something I would never consider purchasing again.

iloveONEWORLD flew KLM Economy (short haul), on a B737-400 (09/07/2010 19:47)

KLM used to be one of my favourite airlines but now everything including the food, service and baggage treatment has turned less attractive

CaspianTaylor flew KLM World Business Class, on a A330-200 (09/07/2010 19:37)

Bad airline, just like the same as the other skyteam members

CaspianTaylor flew KLM Economy Comfort, on a B747-400 Combi (09/07/2010 19:36)

horrible flight, KLM economy comfort is no way near the service of British Airways WT+, Qantas Premium economy or virgin atlantic`s premium economy

CaspianTaylor flew KLM European Business Class, on a B737-800 (09/07/2010 19:34)

KLM business class is definately not business class. Horrible cold food, crowded lounge, bad service and rasist against none dutch natives.

busitraveller flew KLM European Business Class, on a B737-300 (08/07/2010 09:33)

KLM Europe-Select is NOT BUSINESS! What a nerve! A Business seat the size of an Economy one! You can imagine my horror after buying my family long distance business returns to find that its not Business at all and in fact even worse, its a full plane and a very tight squeeze on the first leg of the journey - can't even get my arms on to the arm-rest.

Minimal extra extra legroom, chaotic not preferential boarding and supposedly better in-flight does no at all make up for suffering between two sweaty people and falling out of the plane in a creased heap. I can do that on a holiday charter flight if I want.

Outrage! The website does not mention this seat-downsize so when you review carrier options you think they are on-par. Had I known it would have tipped the scales to another carrier for sure. I think this comes under miss-selling or even fraud doesn't it!??

Now found out that KLM doesn't have any Business from UK to Amsterdam so why does it allow you to buy Business tickets on their website!??

Anyway, you can decide if you want to squeeze into an economy Business seat or fly with a carrier who recognises why we pay a Business rate and can deliver an appropriate service for the whole journey!

You have been warned

Peiterswd01 flew KLM World Business Class, on a B747-400 (04/06/2010 17:00)

Having flown with many airlines in Europe and KLM being the best I thought I would try KLM for intercontinental to America and wow was I impress with WBC (World Business Class).

When I checked in and got on board I was instantly greeted with a smile and when I proceeded to the upper deck for my seat the captain personally welcomed me on board and wished me a comfortable flight, the food was world class and the service I could not fault I would rate it as a 5* hotel service.

PRECIOUS44 flew KLM (31/05/2010 17:47)

KLM – London to Geneva, Cointrin Airport (GVA) Switzerland Departure - London Heathrow Airport (LHR) Flight 06.30 – changing at Amsterdam – Arriving in Geneva 11.25 Travel Class – Europe Select I’ve travelled with KLM before and have always found their service to be excellent. After arriving early for a 9.25am flight, using internet check-in, selecting seat and printing out my boarding pass (e-ticket) the previous day at work. So much easier and saves a lot of time. The flight was right on time, no delays.

Travelling with hold-luggage only, as only flying to Europe, only had to check-in at the drop-off points at least 40 minutes before departing.

Flying Europe Select, you can avoid the queues and sit in their quiet lounges (Skyteam Lounge), where one can read a magazine and check the internet. You get extra legroom on board (a must-have with my 5’ 9” frame and long legs) in-seat power, complementary drinks and snacks, plus a free newspaper. You can also change your flight whenever you want to. The Stewards on board are always smiling, asking if you need any assistance with anything. They are extremely attentive and always offer just the right amount of drinks, delicious doughnuts and sandwich snacks. I can find it very stressful at airports and flying sometimes, but always feel relaxed and calmer flying with KLM. The flight itself went quickly and smoothly. One change at Amsterdam, the transfer time taking just one hour.

What I love now is the fact that you can find out in advance what the in-flight entertainment will be on the time and day you are flying. This is easy to check online. Not to mention the language courses one can learn while travelling to their destination. These certainly kept me occupied and I feel it’s a great idea for nervous travellers and people like oneself who can easily get bored whilst just sitting down. I also like to browse through the ‘Holland Herald’ in-flight magazine. I fly quite regularly now and find KLM to be a very good airline, very customer focused and helpful.

KLM now offers CO2 compensation service and if you are a member of their Flying Blue service you can double your flying pints whilst flying Europe Select.

Caters for everyone, whether you are the busy professional, high-stressed executive, celebrities, nervous flyer, families, couples, singles, babies and the elderly

– Basically anyone and everyone!

MichaelKOMERS flew KLM World Business Class, on a B747-400 (04/05/2010 12:23)

For aircraft museum freaks KLM is the ideal option. Aircraft (747, MD11) are old timers, so is comfort, service and staff. One feels in the 80s...but the fees are of today.

Business class in Europe is 3 across, called Euroclass to my surprise. Business class intercontinental can satisfy customers who do not have other options only.

But KLM is on time, functional service provider for the egalitarian society: the Reliable Dutch.

ireneallan flew KLM (26/04/2010 05:23)

KLM is not my favourite airline but i was willing to give them another chance when flying recently to Shanghai. I got on the plane and was sitting in the middle of a 3 seat configuration at the side. the room was not great and the seat was ok. However i was shocked may i repeat shocked that there was no, can i repeat no tvs in the back of the seats but that the entertainment for this 11 and a half hour flight was to be supplied by ting tvs placed intermittently throughout the cabin, not only that but most seat didn't get a great view of them and the headphones made it difficulat to hear over the sound of the engines. In this day and age i take it for granted that there will be seat back tvs that you can choose your own entertainment at a time that suits you. Was so not a happy bunny!

After take off the person in front put their seat right back further limiting my room. Let me tell you it was not a comfortable flight and i was not happy that i had to return with them back to Amsterdam. Food was ok, the service of drinks, water etc throughout the flight was very sparse and i always felt if you asked any of the stewards you were being a nuisance. Big thumbs down from me for KLM.

Corporate-gal flew KLM Economy Comfort, on a A330-200 (05/03/2010 13:32)

Amsterdam - Abu Dhabi - Amsterdam

Check-in: As I used online check-in and printed my boarding passes, and as I was a transfer passenger from Birmingham, I did not experience the check in desks at Amsterdam. Online check-in is easy and gives you the option of checking through if you are on connecting flights, with the '24hours prior' rule taking effect as of your first flight. I was therefore able to take advantage of being able to check-in and upgrade to Economy Comfort for the additional €80.

Airport: As most travellers know, Schipol is one of the huge 'Eurohub' airports. Transfer between flights is easy, especially if the connections are within the same 'terminal'. Outboudn though I had to walk between Terminal B and Terminal D, which took a good 15 minutes, even when walking quite fast. On the return journey, the flights departed from Terminal D, and my flight to Birmingham was directly opposite my arriving gate from Abu Dhabi.

Boarding: KLM operate a very strict boarding procedure, in the following order: Business World, Elite card holders, then by row number in Economy from the back of the aircraft. It was also nice to see the despatch staff ensuring that no-one skipped the queue, which normally happens on other airlines! This meant that boarding the A330 took about 15-20 minutes and was well organised.

Aircraft and Seating: Economy Confort is KLM's new 'premium' seating area as they have not proceeded with making an investment into a separate Premium Economy product. On the A330 the Economy Comfort zone is between rows 10-15, seating 2-4-2 (although the first row is 2-3-2), offering a roomy 33-34" legroom and increased recline. Outbound I took seat 15H (window) and was pleased with the amount of space and windows available to see out of. Inbound I chose row 10 in the 2-3-2 configuration and took seat 10D, which offered fantastic room and you did not get jostled or knocked by anyone during the flight - this enabled me to sleep for the duration.

Entertainment: Full AVOD system with a reasonable choice of films available in different languages and subtitles, although the screen seems rather small compared to some other carriers. Good choice of music with the ability to make up your own playlist from the vast selection.

Food and drink: Probably some of the best economy food I've had for a long time - three courses served well spaced out on the tray, including a tasty salad, choice of pasta, chicken or beef dishes and a dessert. A drinks service was offered before the main meal was served, which included some scrummy peanuts. Following the meal service, drinks were offered throughout the flight, or you could simply call the crew and ask for further refreshment.

Service: Nothing was too much trouble, and any requests were met with very polite responses.

Baggage: I carried hand luggage so cannot comment on this aspect.

Conclusion: Excellent online check-in system, with the ability to upgrade to Economy Comfort and seating choice easily identifiable and user friendly. Good seats in the Economy Comfort zone with plenty of legroom and recline; good food and drink and friendly cabin service. Good quality, reliable airline.

businessclassvoyageur flew KLM World Business Class, on a B747-400 Combi (03/01/2010 23:26)

AMS-BKK-AMS

I made this flight expecting that it will be great in comparison with some other airlines. I can say that I was disappointed in some points. The crew were perfect. The KLM personnel is always smiling and willing to assist you. But the seat is not designed for tall people like myself ( 1m94) It was simply impossible to sleep. The noise reducing head sets i had once on this flight of business class were great but the last time they were not any more available. They should bring them back. I also expected the amenities to be better. Other airlines offer some hand cream which in KLM is available in the bathroom but in the AMS-BKK the bathroom was simply not clean at all. They should change and add some more things necessary when you do a long trip. They could add perfume samples, cosmetic companies would love to advertise, why they do not change it. And please do not try to wash your teeth with the paste they provide in the kit. It is disgusting.

As for the breakfast, the orange juice is one of the best ever tried in an airline. I did not liked the sweet pudding with the poached fruits. During lunch they served amazing desserts on the flight to BKK but on the return no sweets available. I like the chocolates touch, offering to all business class chocolates but for sure they need to choose a better champagne. This one is like vinegar. They should choose something better.

As for the food, it was great when going to BKK but going back to AMS I could not eat anything. I believe they should ask the catering in BKK to make a HUGE effort and change the food cause other airlines have so much better food. At least in business class, and when like KLM you do not have first class, they should offer the best.

Finally, they should add some more newspapers. I mean more languages or magazines, very poor selection. Please note that the BKK business lounge has like many KLM overseas lounges no smoking area. In Amsterdam they have one, thanks for not forgetting that some people smoke and that this is not a crime, they should do the same in their lounges in BKK and elsewhere. Ass for a pc plug? If you need power when being in BKK at the KLM lounge, you should wait to arrive to Amsterdam, cause in BKK nothing available. The lounge in BKK has only great food but all the rest is like a cheap 2 stars hotel.

kath2004 flew KLM (12/12/2009 14:29)

gabrielle10 flew KLM (07/10/2009 16:15)

I have flown twice with KLM recently and the first time they lost my luggage going out, charged me a HUGE amount for a very little excess baggage- despite ALL of my luggage being within the limits, they would not allow me to repack it.

Then on the last journey with KLM they put my friend and myself at two different seats, despite indicating, when we checked in, that we were sitting together.

I try to fly on any other airline whenever possible.

SonySuliantiJuswara flew KLM Economy, on a B777-300ER (25/08/2009 10:48)

I will give my review as soon as I am on board . I will be flying with this aircraft very soon.

JohnSmith8 flew KLM World Business Class, on a B747-400 Combi (24/07/2009 18:07)

The flight was KL601 from AMS to LAX. The new entertainment is very good with up to date films and a good variety of things to watch. But it wasn't the best. The crew were amazing but the food wasn;t to my taste. I found sleeping very comfortable and sitting in the seat comfortable. Bags took quite along time to come out in LAX but still quite punctual.The new seat is greatly imporved on the old one.

flyingdutchman flew KLM Economy (short haul), on a B737-800 (06/04/2009 17:29)

Fine for the short haul flights it is used for

terminalfive flew KLM European Business Class, on a Cityhopper Fokker 70 (08/03/2009 18:44)

AMS - NCE. One problem with flying on the smaller jets is that you are bused out to the plane in Schiphol which is annoying at the best of times but if it is raining and cold and you have just come in off a long haul flight can be also very unconfortable. Small seats but was lucky to be in seat 1D which is by far the best in terms of leg room. Short flight but cabin staff very attentive. Food "tray" below par for business class even on a two hour flight

terminalfive flew KLM World Business Class, on a B777-200ER (08/03/2009 17:54)

JFK - AMS. Smooth boarding - away on time with a super quick flight to Amsterdam due to strong tailwinds. Inflight serivice was delayed out of JFK due to turbulance but meal was excellent when it arrived. If you have to be picky the "standard" of the KLM wine list has slipped over the years but general business product excellent. Inflight entertainment system top class. Excellent choice of films

SeanAfrica flew KLM World Business Class, on a MD-11 (18/02/2009 10:19)

Jan 09. MD-11 AMS>HYD. Seats are cradle, and comfortable in most positions, until you try to lie for sleep. I couldn't get comfortable. Not a good business class offer. Remainder of service typical KLM Dutch efficiency, and good, but thye can never seem to progress from 'efficiency' to sincere 'warmth'.

Will_67 flew KLM Economy, on a B777-200ER (30/11/2008 22:18)

Metal boxes are placed under all aisle seats in economy class. They take around 40% of the space supposedly to be used by passengers' feet.

This, joined with the slimmest seats I remember of, made the trip from Singapore Changi to Schipol a remarkable negative experience.

William Nov 2008

goswrang flew KLM Economy (short haul), on a Cityhopper Fokker 70 (06/10/2008 13:38)

Small seats, no entertainment, poor food

goswrang flew KLM Economy, on a B747-400 Combi (06/10/2008 11:56)

Johannesburg - Amsterdam,

Small seats, not good for seating. Only monitors on every fifth seat row. Not impressed with the food or the staff.