About KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is the flag carrier of the Netherlands, operating under IATA code KL and ICAO code KLM. Headquartered in Amstelveen, near Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, KLM was founded on 7 October 1919, making it the oldest airline in the world still operating under its original name. The airline is a subsidiary of the Air France-KLM Group, one of Europe's largest airline groups, and a member of the SkyTeam alliance since 2004, connecting passengers to over 1,000 destinations worldwide through its extensive partner network.
KLM operates an extensive global route network from its hub at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), serving more than 160 destinations across Europe, North America, South America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. The airline is renowned for its full-service offering, Dutch hospitality, and commitment to sustainable aviation. Through its frequent flyer programme, Flying Blue, passengers earn miles on KLM, Air France, and SkyTeam partner flights, redeemable for award tickets, upgrades, and other travel benefits.
Airline Overview and History
KLM has a rich aviation heritage spanning over a century, with numerous milestones that have shaped the airline industry. Key events in the airline's history include:
- 7 October 1919 — Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij voor Nederland en Koloniën (Royal Dutch Airlines) was founded by eight investors from the Dutch business and banking sectors, with Queen Wilhelmina granting the royal predicate
- 17 May 1920 — Operated its inaugural flight from London Croydon to Amsterdam, carrying two British journalists and a bundle of newspapers
- 1929 — Launched regular service to Batavia (now Jakarta) in the Dutch East Indies, a journey of five and a half days
- 1946 — Commenced transatlantic service to New York using a Douglas DC-4, becoming one of the first European airlines to serve the route after World War II
- 1958 — Introduced economy class, resulting in a 27% increase in passenger numbers within three months
- 2004 — Merged with Air France to form the Air France-KLM Group while retaining its own brand identity and Dutch operating certificate, and joined the SkyTeam alliance alongside Air France
- 2019 — Celebrated its 100th anniversary, reinforcing its status as the world's oldest airline operating under its original name
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport serves as KLM's primary hub and one of Europe's busiest airports, offering seamless connections through a single-terminal design that makes transfers efficient. The airline's mission centres on providing a reliable, comfortable, and sustainable travel experience, guided by Dutch values of innovation, efficiency, and hospitality.
Fleet and Aircraft
KLM operates a modern and diverse fleet of approximately 125 aircraft, covering short-haul European routes, medium-haul destinations, and long-haul intercontinental services. The fleet includes the following aircraft types:
Wide-Body Aircraft (Long-Haul)
- Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner — Fuel-efficient wide-body used on intercontinental routes, featuring the latest cabin products
- Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner — Larger variant of the 787 family, deployed on high-demand long-haul routes
- Boeing 777-200ER — Workhorse of the long-haul fleet, serving major intercontinental destinations
- Boeing 777-300ER — Flagship aircraft with the highest passenger capacity, used on premium long-haul routes
- Airbus A330-200 — Wide-body aircraft serving medium and long-haul destinations
- Airbus A330-300 — Larger variant deployed on high-demand intercontinental routes
Narrow-Body Aircraft (Short-Haul)
- Boeing 737-800 — Mainstay of the European network, currently being phased out and replaced by Airbus A321neo aircraft
- Boeing 737-900 — Higher-capacity narrow-body for busier European routes
- Airbus A321neo — New-generation narrow-body joining the fleet as part of KLM's fleet renewal programme
Regional Aircraft (KLM Cityhopper)
- Embraer 175 — Regional jet used on shorter European routes with lower demand
- Embraer 190 — Mid-size regional jet for European city pairs
- Embraer 195-E2 — Newest addition to the Cityhopper fleet, offering improved fuel efficiency and passenger comfort
KLM maintains its aircraft to the highest safety and engineering standards, with maintenance carried out by KLM Engineering and Maintenance, one of the world's leading MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) providers. The airline is also investing in sustainable aviation, with the Airbus A350-900 set to join the fleet in the coming years to replace older aircraft types.
Top Flight Routes
KLM operates an extensive global network from its hub at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. For Malaysian travellers, the most notable KLM route is the direct long-haul service between Kuala Lumpur and Amsterdam, providing convenient access to Europe and onward connections worldwide.
KLM Route from Malaysia
- Kuala Lumpur to Amsterdam — KLM's flagship route from Southeast Asia, connecting KUL to the airline's hub at Schiphol with daily wide-body service. From Amsterdam, passengers can connect to hundreds of destinations across Europe, North America, and beyond
Popular Connecting Routes via Amsterdam
With KLM's hub-and-spoke network, Malaysian travellers can fly through Amsterdam to reach major cities worldwide. Popular connecting destinations include London, Paris, Barcelona, Frankfurt, New York, and Toronto. The efficient transfer process at Schiphol Airport makes KLM an excellent choice for one-stop journeys from Kuala Lumpur to Europe.
Related Routes from Kuala Lumpur
If you are exploring flight options from Kuala Lumpur, you may also be interested in these popular routes available on Traveloka:
Check Traveloka for the latest available flights and fares on all these routes.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Understanding KLM's baggage rules before your trip helps you pack efficiently and avoid additional charges at the airport. Baggage allowances vary by cabin class and fare type.
Cabin (Hand) Baggage
- Economy Class: One piece of hand baggage (max 55 x 35 x 25 cm) plus one personal item (max 40 x 30 x 15 cm), combined weight up to 12 kg
- Premium Comfort Class: Two pieces of hand baggage (each max 55 x 35 x 25 cm) plus one personal item (max 40 x 30 x 15 cm), combined weight up to 12 kg
- World Business Class: Two pieces of hand baggage (each max 55 x 35 x 25 cm) plus one personal item (max 40 x 30 x 15 cm), combined weight up to 18 kg
Checked Baggage
- Economy Class (Standard fare): One checked bag up to 23 kg
- Economy Class (Light fare): No free checked baggage included — must be purchased separately
- Premium Comfort Class: Two checked bags, each up to 23 kg
- World Business Class: Two checked bags, each up to 32 kg
- Light Business fare: One checked bag up to 32 kg
- Maximum dimensions per piece: 158 cm (length + width + height)
Excess and Extra Baggage Fees
- Extra checked bag (European routes): From EUR 25 to EUR 240 depending on the route
- Extra checked bag (intercontinental routes): From EUR 30 to EUR 240 depending on the destination
- Overweight bag (23–32 kg, European routes): EUR 75 to EUR 100
- Overweight bag (23–32 kg, intercontinental routes): EUR 75 to EUR 300
- Maximum weight per piece: 32 kg — items exceeding this cannot be transported as checked baggage
Pre-purchasing extra baggage online through the KLM website or Traveloka is significantly cheaper than paying at the airport. Flying Blue members with Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Ultimate status enjoy additional free baggage allowances.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
- Dangerous goods, explosives, flammable liquids, and toxic substances are strictly prohibited
- Sharp objects such as knives, scissors (blade over 6 cm), and tools must be placed in checked baggage
- Lithium batteries, power banks, and e-cigarettes must be carried in cabin baggage only
- Liquids in cabin baggage must comply with the 100 ml container rule in a transparent resealable bag
Check-in Guide
Online Check-in
KLM offers convenient online check-in through its website and mobile app. The check-in window is as follows:
- Most flights: Opens 30 hours before departure, closes 1 hour before departure
- Flights to/from the United States: Opens 24 hours before departure, closes 1 hour before departure
After completing online check-in, you can download your boarding pass to your smartphone or print it at home. If you have checked baggage, proceed to the baggage drop-off counter at the airport.
Airport Counter Check-in
Airport check-in counters at Amsterdam Schiphol and other departure airports are available for passengers who prefer in-person assistance. Recommended arrival times:
- European flights: At least 2 hours before departure
- Intercontinental flights: At least 3 hours before departure
Self-service kiosks are also available at major airports, allowing passengers to print boarding passes and luggage tags quickly.
Check-in via the KLM App
The KLM mobile app allows you to check in, receive your digital boarding pass, track your flight status, and manage your booking on the go. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
KLM offers three distinct cabin classes on its long-haul intercontinental flights, each designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
World Business Class
KLM World Business Class provides a premium travel experience with the following features:
- Seats: Fully flat beds with direct aisle access and sliding privacy doors on newer aircraft, offering a personal suite-like experience
- Dining: Multi-course meals created by Dutch top chefs using fresh, seasonal ingredients, paired with a curated selection of wines, port, and dessert wines
- Entertainment: Personal high-definition touchscreen with hundreds of movies, series, documentaries, music albums, and games
- Amenities: Amenity kit, noise-cancelling headphones, and comfortable bedding including a mattress topper, pillow, and duvet
- Lounge access: Access to KLM Crown Lounges at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Premium Comfort Class
Positioned between Economy and Business Class, Premium Comfort offers an enhanced travel experience:
- Seats: Wider seats with 38 inches of legroom (compared to 31 inches in Economy), deeper recline, and an adjustable footrest
- Entertainment: Larger 13.3-inch personal screen (compared to 9–11 inches in Economy)
- Dining: Enhanced meal service with a wider selection and premium beverages
- Baggage: Two checked bags included (each up to 23 kg)
- Priority: Priority boarding and dedicated overhead bin space
Economy Class
KLM Economy Class provides a comfortable experience for long-haul travel:
- Seats: Ergonomic seats with adjustable headrest and personal touchscreen entertainment
- Entertainment: Personal seatback screen with a wide selection of movies, TV series, music, and games
- Dining: Complimentary meals and beverages on long-haul flights, including a choice of warm dishes, salad, dessert, and drinks
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi available for purchase on equipped aircraft
European Flights
On shorter European flights, KLM operates a single-class Economy cabin with complimentary snacks and beverages. Business Class passengers on European flights enjoy an empty middle seat, priority boarding, and lounge access, with the same Economy Class seats.
In-Flight Meals
KLM is known for its quality in-flight catering. On intercontinental flights, all passengers receive complimentary meals including a main course, side dishes, and beverages. Special meal options — including halal, vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and allergen-free meals — can be pre-ordered at least 24 hours before departure through the KLM website or Traveloka.
In-Flight Entertainment
KLM's in-flight entertainment system on long-haul aircraft features personal high-definition touchscreens offering hundreds of movies, TV series, documentaries, music albums, podcasts, and games in multiple languages. Passengers can also use their own devices with onboard Wi-Fi (available for purchase on equipped aircraft) or enjoy content through the KLM app.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Travelling with Children and Infants
- Children (2–11 years): Require their own seat and ticket. Child fares may be available on certain routes. Flying Blue members receive a 25% discount on award tickets for children aged 2–11 travelling with an adult
- Infants (under 2 years): May travel on an accompanying adult's lap with a reduced infant fare. Bassinets are available on long-haul flights for infants and can be requested during booking (subject to availability)
- Required documents: Valid passport for all child and infant passengers on international flights
- Strollers and car seats: Can be checked at the boarding gate free of charge
Pregnant Passengers
- Passengers in early to mid stages of pregnancy can fly without restriction
- Passengers 36 weeks or more into their pregnancy are advised not to fly
- KLM recommends informing cabin crew of the pregnancy and expected due date at check-in
- For passengers expecting multiple babies or with a history of pregnancy complications, medical consultation before travel is strongly recommended
- Travel during the first week following delivery is also not advised
Passengers Requiring Special Assistance
KLM provides comprehensive assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, visual or hearing impairments, or medical conditions. Available services include:
- Wheelchair assistance from check-in through boarding and disembarkation
- Priority boarding for passengers requiring extra time
- Assistance from trained cabin crew during the flight
- Portable oxygen concentrators (POC) permitted on board with advance notification
- Service dogs and emotional support animals accepted on certain routes (with advance arrangement)
Passengers requiring special assistance should notify the airline or Traveloka at least 48 hours before departure to ensure all arrangements are in place.
Unaccompanied Minors
- Children aged 5–14 years: Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service is mandatory — KLM staff supervise the child from departure to arrival
- Children aged 15–17 years: UM service is optional — if not booked, the child travels as an adult passenger
- Children under 5 years: Cannot travel without an accompanying adult
The UM service must be arranged at least 24 hours before departure. Parents or guardians must complete the required documentation and ensure a designated responsible adult is present at both the departure and arrival airports.
Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy
Rescheduling Flights
To reschedule a KLM flight booked through Traveloka:
- Open the Traveloka app or website and go to My Booking
- Select the booking you wish to modify
- Choose the reschedule option and select a new flight
- Pay any applicable fare differences or rescheduling fees
Flexible fare types typically allow rescheduling with lower or waived fees, while Light and promotional fares may have stricter change conditions or higher fees.
Cancellations and Refunds
Refund eligibility depends on your fare type:
- Fully flexible fares: Eligible for a full refund upon cancellation
- Standard fares: Partial refund may be available, with a cancellation fee deducted
- Light and promotional fares: Generally non-refundable, though taxes and surcharges may be refunded
To request a cancellation or refund, visit your booking details on Traveloka and follow the guided process. Refund processing typically takes 7 to 30 business days depending on the original payment method.
Airline-Initiated Cancellations
If KLM cancels your flight, you are entitled to rebooking on the next available KLM or partner airline flight, or a full refund. Under EU Regulation 261/2004, passengers may also be eligible for compensation depending on the circumstances and notice period. Contact Traveloka's 24/7 customer support for immediate assistance.
Why Book KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Flights on Traveloka
Booking KLM Royal Dutch Airlines flights through Traveloka offers several advantages for Malaysian travellers:
- Competitive pricing — Access exclusive fares and promotional deals on KLM flights, often at prices lower than booking directly
- Easy comparison — Compare KLM flights with other airlines side-by-side, filtering by price, departure time, duration, and number of stops
- Flexible payment in RM — Pay in Malaysian Ringgit using credit/debit cards, bank transfers, Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, ShopeePay, or interest-free instalment plans
- Instant e-ticket — Receive your booking confirmation and e-ticket immediately via email and the Traveloka app
- 24/7 customer support — Multilingual support team available around the clock for booking changes, cancellations, or any travel queries
- Loyalty rewards — Earn Traveloka points on every booking, enjoy cashback offers, and access member-exclusive deals
- Add-on services — Easily add travel insurance, extra baggage, seat selection, and airport transfers during the booking process
- Manage bookings — View, modify, or cancel your KLM booking directly through the Traveloka app or website
Tips for Finding Cheap KLM Flights on Traveloka
Use these proven strategies to find the best fares on KLM Royal Dutch Airlines flights from Malaysia:
- Book early — Intercontinental fares to Amsterdam and European destinations are generally lowest when booked 2 to 3 months in advance
- Be flexible with dates — Use Traveloka's fare calendar to compare prices across different travel dates and find the cheapest day to fly
- Fly midweek — Departures on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays tend to offer lower fares than weekend flights
- Set Price Alerts — Activate Traveloka's Price Alert feature to receive instant notifications when KLM fares drop on your preferred route
- Check promotions regularly — Visit Traveloka's promotions page for flash sales, seasonal deals, and exclusive KLM promo codes
- Travel during off-peak seasons — Avoid peak travel periods such as school holidays, Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and European summer (June–August) for lower fares
- Choose Light fares — If you are travelling with minimal baggage, select KLM's Light fare option for a lower base price and add baggage only if needed
- Bundle your trip — Book flights and hotels together on Traveloka for additional savings through bundled deals
- Consider connecting flights — One-stop itineraries through other hubs may sometimes offer lower fares than direct flights
How to Book KLM Flight Tickets on Traveloka
Follow these simple steps to book your KLM Royal Dutch Airlines flight on Traveloka:
- Visit traveloka.com or open the Traveloka app and navigate to the Flights section
- Enter your departure city (e.g., Kuala Lumpur) and destination (e.g., Amsterdam), select your travel dates, and specify the number of passengers and preferred cabin class
- Tap the search button to view all available flights for your route, including KLM direct and connecting options
- Sort and filter results by price, departure time, duration, airline, or number of stops to find your ideal flight
- Select your preferred KLM flight and choose your fare type (Light, Standard, or Flex)
- Enter passenger details — full name (as shown on passport), date of birth, nationality, passport number, and contact information
- Add optional extras such as additional baggage, seat selection, special meals, or travel insurance
- Review your complete booking summary including base fare, taxes, surcharges, and any add-ons
- Choose your preferred payment method — credit/debit card, bank transfer, Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, ShopeePay, or instalment plan — and complete the transaction
- Receive your e-ticket instantly via email and the Traveloka app — save or print it for reference at the airport
With your e-ticket confirmed, you can proceed to online check-in 30 hours before departure (24 hours for US-bound flights) and prepare for your journey with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.