I’ll be honest: I wasn’t expecting to love KLM Business Class. But after flying them between Amsterdam and the US a few times, plus some shorter European routes, it’s become one of my favorite airlines. The seats are comfortable, the service feels genuine without being over the top, and those little Delft Blue gin houses they hand out still make me smile every time.
Here’s the thing though: not all KLM Business Class flights are created equal. Some planes have privacy doors and lie-flat beds, others feel more like premium economy with extra legroom. I’ll share which aircraft to book, how to find cheap fares with miles, and how KLM actually competes with the big European carriers.
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Overview of KLM Business Class
KLM’s Business Class is reliably good. You’re not getting Middle Eastern luxury or Asian levels of service, but you are getting flat-bed seats on long haul routes, decent food, and access to one of Europe’s better hub airports in Amsterdam.
The network is solid. Over 170 destinations with strong connections to North America, Africa, and Asia. New York JFK is their biggest US route with up to three daily flights, followed by Los Angeles, Atlanta, Chicago, and San Francisco. London Heathrow gets the most frequency overall with multiple daily departures. As part of the Air France-KLM group and SkyTeam, you’ve got plenty of routing options if you’re booking with miles.
The crew is warm and the service is excellent. The Crown Lounge at Schiphol is genuinely worth arriving early for. And those Delft Blue houses filled with Dutch gin make the experience feel a bit more special than your average European carrier.
KLM often prices lower than Lufthansa or British Airways on transatlantic routes, and Flying Blue has some genuinely good award sweet spots. If you’re flexible with your dates and know which planes to book, you can get excellent value here.
What’s new with KLM Business Class in 2026?
KLM’s been busy upgrading their Business Class experience, and frequent flyers have plenty to get excited about. From fresh routes to cabin updates and design collaborations, here’s everything you need to know.
Privacy doors on all 777s
KLM finally completed the retrofit of its entire Boeing 777 fleet with new Business Class seats featuring individual sliding doors. If you’ve been avoiding KLM’s 777s because of that outdated 2-2-2 configuration, it’s time to give them another look.
The new seats are 20-21 inches wide with direct aisle access and can convert to a 78-inch flat bed. The installation took nearly two years, but every 777 now has that 1-2-1 layout with privacy doors. I’d recommend booking window seats for maximum privacy, or grab those center seats if you’re traveling with a companion.
New routes worth booking
For the winter 2025-2026 season, KLM is flying to 161 destinations. Here’s what’s new.
San Diego (starting late February 2026): Three weekly flights from Amsterdam on the 787-9. This is huge for Southern California travelers who want to skip LAX.
Kittilä, Finland (November 2025 through March 2026): Weekly Sunday flights to Lapland for Northern Lights chasers and ski enthusiasts near the Levi and Ylläs resorts. Trust me, this is the move if you want an Arctic adventure without the usual Scandinavian hassle.
Barbados via Georgetown: Three weekly flights combining Georgetown, Guyana with Bridgetown, Barbados starting October 2025. Great for Caribbean island hoppers.
Hyderabad: Three weekly flights started in September 2025. India capacity is up 28% compared to last winter, so award availability should be better.
KLM’s also increased flights to Bangkok (10x weekly), Curaçao (11x weekly), Cape Town (11x weekly), and added flights to Delhi, Panama City, and multiple US cities.
New amenity kits (with mixed reviews)
In April 2025, KLM launched new amenity kits with Marie-Stella-Maris, replacing the previous Rituals products. The kits feature weather-inspired designs in two color options. However, passenger reactions have been mixed, with some finding the modern design doesn’t match KLM’s traditional vibe. The products themselves are high-quality, but if you loved the old Rituals kits, you might be disappointed. The Marie-Stella-Maris products are now in the lounges too.
Coming in 2027: new tableware and service
. KLM is partnering again with Dutch designer Marcel Wanders to create entirely new tableware for World Business Class, made from crystal, bone china, and stainless steel. The new tableware will debut alongside a refreshed meal presentation and potentially new dishes, with implementation starting in 2027.
KLM is also adding two more Business Class seats to the 787-9 and expanding Premium Comfort to up to 40 seats depending on aircraft type. They’re promising more face time with crew, including the return of welcome drinks.
WiFi improvements
Free messaging via in-flight WiFi is available for all KLM passengers, with Surf and Stream packages available for purchase in Business Class. Flying Blue Ultimate members get these packages for free. It’s not the fastest in-flight WiFi out there, but it works for emails and light browsing on most intercontinental routes.
How to book KLM Business Class for less
Flying KLM Business Class doesn’t have to break the bank. Between Flying Blue’s award sweet spots, transfer partner bonuses, and upgrade strategies, there are plenty of ways to score a premium seat without paying full price.
Using Flying Blue miles
Flying Blue is Air France and KLM’s joint loyalty program, and honestly it’s one of the better European programs for value. Business class awards to Europe start around 60,000 miles one way, though pricing is dynamic.
The real win is their monthly Promo Rewards. Every month, Flying Blue discounts specific routes by 25% to 50%. I’ve booked business class from the US to Europe for 45,000 miles one way during these promos. Routes like New York, Chicago, and Atlanta get deals regularly.
Flying Blue also lets you add free stopovers on awards. If you’re booking on Air France or KLM metal, you can stop in Amsterdam or Paris for up to a year at no extra cost. I’ve used this to squeeze two trips out of one award booking.
Credit card transfer partners
Flying Blue transfers from every major US credit card program at 1:1. American Express, Chase, Citi, Capital One, Bilt, and Wells Fargo all work. Transfers are usually instant from Amex. Watch for transfer bonuses. Amex offers 20% to 25% bonuses to Flying Blue about twice a year. With a 25% bonus, you only need 48,000 Amex points for a 60,000-mile ticket. I always wait for these before transferring.
Upgrade strategies
KLM offers three upgrade options.
- Bid for upgrades: KLM has an “Upgrade Yourself” bidding system. Bids range from €279 to €1,500 for long haul. Your chances improve if you bid within 24 hours of departure. Weekend flights tend to have lower minimum bids. If you bought a cheap economy fare, this can be solid value.
- Last minute upgrades: Starting at online check-in (30 hours before), KLM sometimes offers paid upgrades if Business Class isn’t full. Prices vary but can be reasonable. The catch is it’s unpredictable.
- Miles upgrades: You can use Flying Blue miles to upgrade paid tickets, but you’ll need 40,000 to 50,000 miles for transatlantic. Only worth it if you bought a flexible economy fare.
When to book
For award tickets, book early. KLM releases space around 330 days out and the good stuff goes fast. That said, space can open closer to departure if Business Class isn’t selling. For paid tickets, KLM occasionally has mistake fares where Business Class drops significantly. Avoid summer and holidays when using miles. Fall and early spring have better availability and lower prices.
Which KLM planes to fly (and which to avoid)
Not all KLM Business Class experiences are equal. Some planes have modern reverse herringbone seats with privacy doors, others have outdated 2-2-2 configurations where middle seats share armrests with strangers. Here’s what you need to know.
The best: Boeing 777 with new seats
If you can snag one of KLM’s retrofitted 777s, do it. These planes now have 35 reverse herringbone seats in a 1-2-1 layout with sliding privacy doors. The seats feature wireless charging, better storage than the 787s, and a massage function. The 777-300ER has the cabin split into two sections (27 seats forward, 8 in a smaller aft cabin). The aft cabin feels more private if you can get it.
Solo travelers should book window seats (A or K) for maximum privacy. Couples traveling together will want the center pairs (D and G seats). I’d avoid row 1 if you want overhead storage directly above you. You’ll find these on major US routes plus flights to Asia and Africa. Both the 777-300ER and 777-200ER now have these seats, though double check the seat map when booking since aircraft swaps happen.
Also excellent: Boeing 787-10
The 787-10 has 38 business class seats in a single cabin with the same 1-2-1 reverse herringbone layout. These seats don’t have doors like the 777s, but they’re still private and comfortable. The seat turns into a 78-inch flat bed. These fly to destinations like Los Angeles, Chicago, and several routes to India and the Caribbean.
Storage is a bit limited compared to the 777s. There’s an open shelf instead of a enclosed cabinet. Some of these planes are starting to show wear, with chipped paint and discolored leather, but everything still functions fine. My pick for solo travelers is rows 4-8, window seats. The front rows can get galley noise. For couples, the center pairs work well. Just know the cabin can run warm since there are no personal air vents.
Good: Boeing 787-9
The 787-9 has 30 business class seats with the older Safran Cirrus reverse herringbone seat. It looks similar to the 787-10 at first glance but has some differences in storage and layout. Still a solid product with 1-2-1 configuration and direct aisle access for everyone. You’ll see these on routes to San Diego, Austin, Boston, and select Asia destinations.
Skip if possible: Airbus A330
The A330-200 and A330-300 both still have the old 2-2-2 configuration. That means if you’re in a middle seat, you’re sharing an armrest with a stranger. Not all seats have direct aisle access. These planes are fine for shorter routes but I’d avoid them on longer hauls if you have options.
The A330-200 primarily operates to Washington Dulles and Georgetown (via Sint Maarten). The A330-300 flies to destinations like Riyadh, Aruba, and Dammam. KLM hasn’t announced plans to retrofit these, so expect this dated configuration to stick around.
Intra-Europe flights
On short European routes, KLM uses 737s, Embraer jets, and the new A321neo. Business Class is basically economy seats with a blocked middle seat. It’s fine for a two hour flight to London but nothing special. The A321neos fly to popular cities like London Heathrow, Rome, Barcelona, Lisbon, and Athens. The Embraers in particular can feel cramped if the flight is full.
Ground experience: check-in, lounges, and baggage
The airport experience with KLM is generally smooth, though Amsterdam Schiphol can be busy. Here’s what to expect from check-in to boarding.
Priority check-in and boarding
Business Class gets you access to dedicated Sky Priority lanes at check-in, security, and boarding. At Amsterdam, this makes a real difference. Security lines can get long, especially in the morning, and the fast track lanes save significant time.
Check-in is straightforward. I usually do it online 30 hours before departure, but if you need to check bags, the Business Class counters move quickly. Just look for the Sky Priority signage. Boarding is organized. Business Class boards first, and gate agents enforce it.
Baggage allowance
Business Class passengers get two checked bags up to 70 pounds each. Flying Blue elite members get a third bag. Your bags also get priority tags, so they’re supposed to come out first at baggage claim. In my experience, this actually works most of the time. Carry-on is generous too. Two pieces plus a personal item, total weight limit of 40 pounds. I’ve never seen them weigh carry-ons, but don’t push it.
KLM Crown Lounge at Amsterdam
The Crown Lounge 52 (non-Schengen) is KLM’s flagship lounge and it’s massive. Two floors, seating for 1,500 people, and it still gets crowded during peak times. The lounge is split into different zones. The lower level has the main food buffet, a staffed bar, and a barista station. Upstairs is the “Blue” bar area, which is quieter and has an outdoor terrace. If the lounge is packed, head upstairs.
Food quality is hit or miss. Breakfast has a decent spread with European and American options, but nothing amazing. Lunch and dinner offer hot dishes, salads, cold cuts, bread, and cheese. It’s fine for a snack but don’t expect gourmet. Some people complain it’s mediocre for a flagship lounge. They’re not wrong.
Drinks are solid. Their barista-made coffee is good. The bars pour Heineken on tap, spirits, wine, and champagne. They also have a paid restaurant upstairs with better food and drinks, but I’ve never bothered with it.
Showers can be a problem. You need to book them at a kiosk when you arrive, and wait times can be two hours during busy periods. If you have a short connection, forget it. The showers themselves are fine once you get in. There are also paid sleep cabins if you need a nap.
The lounge also displays all of KLM’s collectible Delft Blue houses behind glass, which is a nice touch if you’re into that. Is it the best lounge in Europe? No. But it’s functional, spacious, and better than sitting at the gate. Just arrive early if you want a shower or a comfortable seat.
Other KLM lounges
If you’re flying within Europe, you’ll use Crown Lounge 25 instead. It’s smaller and not as nice as Lounge 52. The food is more basic, and it can feel crowded. Still beats the gate area, but don’t expect much.
At other airports, you’ll access SkyTeam lounges or partner lounges. KLM has its own Crown Lounges in Toronto and Houston, which are decent. Quality varies everywhere else.
Onboard: seats, screens, and amenities
Once you settle into your seat, KLM Business Class delivers solid comfort without being flashy. Here’s what the actual flying experience is like.
The seats
On the good aircraft (retrofitted 777s and both 787s), you get reverse herringbone seats that convert to a 78-inch flat bed. The seat width is about 20-21 inches, which is decent but not huge. There’s no mattress pad, just a pillow and blanket.
The 777s with doors have better storage with a lockable cabinet and mirror. The 787s have more open storage that’s a bit limited. Seat controls are straightforward and easy to use. Some 777s also have a massage function.
On the older A330s, you’re stuck with angled flat beds in a 2-2-2 layout. They’re fine for sleeping but not nearly as good as the newer seats. One complaint I have is the lack of personal air vents on the 787s. The cabin can run warm, which makes sleeping harder. Not a dealbreaker but annoying on a long flight.
Entertainment
Each seat has a 16 to 18-inch touchscreen with around 1,000 hours of content. Movies, TV shows, documentaries, music, games. The selection is decent but not exceptional. Some reviewers complain about limited episodes of certain shows or outdated content. I’ve found enough to keep me entertained on most flights.
The screen works as a touchscreen or you can use the wired remote. KLM provides noise-canceling headphones that connect with a magnetic connector. They’re fine but nothing special. You can use your own Bluetooth headphones if you bring an adapter.
KLM WiFi
Free messaging is available on all intercontinental flights. Beyond that, you pay for Surf or Stream packages. Pricing is reasonable and there are no data caps, which is nice. Flying Blue Ultimate members get it free. The WiFi works for emails and light browsing. Streaming is possible but can be spotty depending on the route. It’s functional but don’t expect blazing speeds.
Amenity kits and extras
KLM recently switched from Rituals products to Marie-Stella-Maris. The new kits come in a reusable tote bag and include basics like toothbrush, toothpaste, socks, eye mask, earplugs, face cream, and lip balm. Honestly, the kits look trendy but a lot of passengers preferred the old Rituals ones.
The real highlight is the Delft Blue house. Before landing, the crew hands out these miniature ceramic houses filled with Dutch gin. They’re modeled after real Dutch buildings and have been a KLM tradition since the 1950s. It’s a nice touch that makes the experience feel special. I’ve collected a few over the years.
Dining and drinks
Food is where KLM gets mixed reviews. Some flights are good, others are forgettable. Here’s what to expect.
Long haul dining
Service starts with a welcome drink. Champagne or orange juice, your choice. After takeoff, you get the full meal service. The menu changes every three months and is designed by Dutch chef Jonnie Boer and sommelier Thérèse Boer. Typical service is a cold appetizer or soup, choice of main, and dessert (either something sweet or a cheese plate). Coffee and tea follow.
Main options usually include fish, chicken, and a vegetarian dish. Recent menus have featured things like baked salmon, chicken thigh with star anise gravy, and vegetarian stew. The food is plated on Marcel Wanders designed tableware, which looks nice.
Quality is inconsistent. Sometimes the food is tasty and well prepared. Other times it’s lukewarm, bland, or overcooked. The menu out of Amsterdam tends to be better than return flights from other stations where local catering handles it.
You can pre-order your main course up to 45 days before departure, which I recommend if you have strong preferences. Breakfast on morning arrivals is a mix of sweet and savory. Yogurt, granola, bread, fruit, and sometimes eggs or pastries. It’s fine but nothing special.
Wine and drinks
The wine selection is decent but not exceptional. Sommelier-chosen wines rotate with the menu. Recent options included Argentinian Malbec and French Rhône wines. Beer on tap is Heineken. Full bar with spirits. Drinks are available throughout the flight. Snacks are also available anytime from the galley, which include nuts, crackers, chocolate, and fruit.
Intra-Europe meals
On short European flights, you get a “deluxe meal box” served cold. It’s pretty much a fancy lunch box with a salad, sandwich, or noodle dish. Sometimes there’s a smoothie or fresh juice. It’s fine for a two hour flight but don’t expect hot food or real plating. The box itself is nicely designed with Dutch themes, which is a nice touch even if the food inside is average.
KLM Business Class vs other European carriers
KLM sits in an interesting spot among European business class products. Not the best, not the worst, but competitive where it matters. Here’s how it stacks up against three main rivals.
KLM vs Lufthansa
Lufthansa’s Business Class is inconsistent. Their older seats don’t have direct aisle access on many planes, which is a dealbreaker for me. The new Allegris seats they’re rolling out look promising, but most of the fleet still has the old product.
Where Lufthansa wins is their Premium Economy, which is genuinely better than KLM’s. But in Business Class, I’d take KLM’s retrofitted 777s or 787s over most Lufthansa planes. KLM’s seats are more modern, you’re guaranteed direct aisle access on the good planes, and the 777s even have doors.
Food is roughly equal. Both are fine but not exceptional. KLM focuses more on Dutch regional cuisine, Lufthansa goes more international. The real advantage with Lufthansa is their network and fleet. They fly A350s and A380s on some routes, which are quieter and more comfortable planes overall. But for pure Business Class product, KLM edges ahead.
KLM vs British Airways
This one depends entirely on which BA plane you’re on. BA’s Club Suite on the A350 and some 777s is excellent. Direct aisle access, doors, modern design. But their older Club World seats on many planes are outdated with the dreaded 2-4-2 configuration where some passengers don’t have aisle access.
KLM’s product is more consistent. You know what you’re getting on the 777s and 787s. With BA, it’s a lottery unless you specifically check the aircraft type. BA’s food used to be terrible but has improved significantly. I’d say it’s now roughly on par with KLM, maybe slightly better on some routes.
The big advantage with BA is avoiding Amsterdam Schiphol, which can be a nightmare for connections. Heathrow isn’t great either, but if you’re based in London, flying BA direct beats connecting through Amsterdam. For pricing, KLM is often cheaper, especially when using Flying Blue miles. BA Avios pricing has gotten outrageous on many routes.
KLM vs Air France
Air France is KLM’s sister airline in the same group, so comparisons are interesting. Air France’s Business Class is generally considered slightly better than KLM’s, especially on their newer A350s and 777s with the updated seats.
Food on Air France is noticeably better. French culinary standards just hit different. Wine selection is also superior. Service style differs too. Air France is more formal and polished, KLM is warmer but more casual. I prefer KLM’s approach, but it’s personal preference.
The lounges in Paris are better than Amsterdam’s Crown Lounge, particularly Air France’s La Première lounge if you can access it. Where KLM wins is pricing and Amsterdam as a connecting hub. Schiphol is easier to navigate than CDG, and KLM tends to price lower on the same routes.
Bottom line
KLM offers excellent value in the European Business Class landscape. It’s not Emirates or Singapore level, but it competes well against other European carriers. The retrofitted 777s with doors put it ahead of most Lufthansa and BA planes. Air France edges it out on food and polish, but KLM wins on price and efficiency. If I’m booking with miles, KLM is often my first choice for transatlantic routes. Trust me, the value proposition is hard to beat.
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