skyceirge

skyceirge
Menu
+1 (347) 915-6467
skyceirge
Menu

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, the flag carrier airline of the Netherlands, is renowned for its extensive global connectivity, dependable service, and passenger-focused policies. Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, understanding KLM’s airline policies ensures a smooth and stress-free journey. This comprehensive 3000-word article explores KLM’s major policies covering baggage, cancellations, refunds, pet travel, unaccompanied minors, check-in procedures, and more.
  1. Baggage Policy

Checked Baggage Allowance KLM offers varying baggage allowances depending on travel class, fare type, and route.

  • Economy Light: No checked baggage (only cabin baggage)
  • Economy Standard & Flex: 1 checked bag (max 23 kg/50 lbs)
  • Premium Comfort: 2 checked bags (max 23 kg each)
  • Business Class: 2 checked bags (max 32 kg each)

Baggage dimensions must not exceed 158 cm (length + width + height).

Cabin Baggage (Carry-On)

  • Economy Class: 1 carry-on bag + 1 personal item (max combined weight 12 kg)
  • Business Class: 2 carry-on bags + 1 personal item (max combined weight 18 kg)

All items must fit in overhead bins or under the seat.

Special Baggage Oversized items like sports gear or musical instruments may incur additional charges. Items must be pre-registered online.

Excess Baggage Extra baggage can be purchased online or at the airport, with discounts for advance booking. Rates vary based on route and weight.

  1. Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Eligibility

  • Required for children aged 5–14 traveling alone.
  • Optional for ages 15–17.

Booking Process

  • Must be booked directly through KLM or a travel agent.
  • A fee is applicable per flight segment.

Services Included

  • Dedicated staff support
  • Supervision during boarding, in-flight, and arrival
  • Lounge access at select airports

Parents/guardians must complete an unaccompanied minor form and provide identification.

  1. Cancellation Policy

KLM offers flexibility across its fare types:

  • Economy Light: Non-refundable
  • Economy Standard: Refundable with a fee
  • Economy Flex & Business Flex: Fully refundable

Cancellations can be made through the “My Trip” portal or customer service.

Cancellation Due to Medical or Family Emergencies KLM considers exceptions for cancellations due to illness or bereavement. Supporting documents are required.

  1. Refund Policy

Refunds are typically issued to the original form of payment within 2–4 weeks.

Refund Eligibility

  • Fully unused tickets for eligible fare types
  • Taxes on non-refundable fares
  • Ancillary services not used (such as pre-paid baggage)

Refund requests can be submitted online.

  1. Flight Change and Rebooking Policy

Voluntary Changes

  • Allowed based on fare conditions
  • Rebooking fees may apply
  • Fare difference will be charged if applicable

How to Rebook

  • Log in to “My Trip”
  • Select the flight you want to change
  • Choose a new date or destination

Involuntary Changes In case of delays, cancellations, or schedule changes initiated by KLM, passengers can:

  • Accept the alternative flight
  • Request a refund
  • Choose another date
  1. Check-In and Boarding

Online Check-In

  • Opens 30 hours before departure (24 hours for flights to/from the U.S.)
  • Available via KLM website, mobile app, and select third-party services

Airport Check-In

  • Opens 3 hours before departure
  • Closes 60 minutes before departure for international flights

Boarding

  • Begins 45 minutes before departure
  • Ends 15 minutes before departure

Required Documents

  • Passport/ID
  • Visa (if applicable)
  • COVID-19 vaccination or test certificates (where required)
  1. Visa and Travel Documentation

KLM does not issue visas but provides travel advisories. Passengers are responsible for verifying visa and documentation requirements.

Schengen Area Traveling to/from Europe may require a Schengen visa.

Transit Visa Some travelers transiting through Amsterdam Schiphol Airport may need a visa depending on nationality.

  1. Pet Travel Policy

Pets in Cabin

  • Only small cats or dogs weighing up to 8 kg (including carrier)
  • Carrier dimensions: 46 x 28 x 24 cm
  • Must be placed under the seat

Pets in Hold

  • Heavier pets can travel in the aircraft hold
  • Must be transported in an IATA-compliant kennel

Pets as Cargo

  • Exotic pets or large breeds must travel via Air France-KLM Cargo

Pet reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance.

  1. What You Can Carry On Board

Permitted Items

  • Personal electronics (laptops, phones, etc.)
  • Medication (with prescription)
  • Baby food (for children on board)
  • Duty-free liquids in sealed bags

Prohibited Items

  • Sharp objects
  • Flammable substances
  • Firearms (unless pre-approved)

Liquids Rule

  • Containers up to 100ml only
  • Must fit in a 1-liter transparent resealable plastic bag
  1. Major Routes and Destinations

KLM operates flights to over 170 destinations across 70+ countries from its hub at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

Major Long-Haul Routes:

  • New York (JFK)
  • Los Angeles (LAX)
  • São Paulo (GRU)
  • Johannesburg (JNB)
  • Tokyo (NRT)
  • Bangkok (BKK)

Short-Haul and Regional Routes:

  • London (LHR)
  • Paris (CDG)
  • Berlin (BER)
  • Rome (FCO)
  • Barcelona (BCN)

KLM frequently collaborates with SkyTeam partners for codeshare flights.

  1. Special Assistance

Services Offered

  • Wheelchair assistance
  • Priority boarding
  • Special meals (diabetic, kosher, etc.)
  • Onboard support for visual/hearing impaired passengers

Medical Assistance

  • MEDIF form required for serious health conditions
  • Supplemental oxygen and stretchers available with pre-booking

Requests should be made at least 48 hours before departure.

  1. Loyalty Program: Flying Blue

Membership Tiers

  • Explorer
  • Silver
  • Gold
  • Platinum

Benefits

  • Priority check-in and boarding
  • Extra baggage allowance
  • Lounge access
  • Exclusive rewards and upgrades

Miles can be earned on KLM, Air France, and partner airlines, and redeemed for flights, hotel stays, and more.

  1. In-Flight Services

Meal Options

  • Complimentary meals in all classes
  • Special dietary meals upon request (at least 24 hours in advance)

Entertainment

  • Seat-back screens with hundreds of movies, shows, and music
  • USB and charging ports on most aircraft

Wi-Fi Available on select aircraft for a fee or free for certain loyalty tiers

  1. Travel Insurance

KLM offers optional travel insurance during the booking process.

Coverage Includes:

  • Trip cancellation
  • Medical emergencies
  • Lost/delayed baggage
  • Personal liability

Terms depend on the insurance provider selected.

Conclusion

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines stands out for its well-rounded and customer-centric travel policies. From flexible baggage allowances and a robust loyalty program to extensive global routes and reliable pet travel services, KLM ensures every traveler enjoys a safe and pleasant journey. Whether you’re flying across Europe or to the far reaches of Asia, knowing these policies ahead of time will help you plan effectively and travel with confidence.

For real-time updates and personalized details, always refer to KLM’s official website or contact their customer support.