KLM vs Air France: Comparing Long-Haul Economy Flights

Air France and KLM are part of the same airline group and share the Flying Blue loyalty program. However, each airline reflects the distinct cultures of their countries, leading to different experiences in economy class. Both airlines are known for their specified services. But mainly KLM airlines are preferred by people over Air France in terms of offered services and provided facilities. Let’s compare a recent KLM vs Air France flight along with the offered services and amenities.

An Overview of KLM vs Air France

Airport and Transfer Experience

Transferring through Amsterdam Schiphol is generally simpler and less stressful than at Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG). Schiphol’s layout is more compact and easier to navigate, and the Dutch border guards are often more approachable. In contrast, CDG provides an advantage for SkyPriority members with fast-track lanes at border control, which helps frequent flyers with elite status.

Seating and Space

• Both KLM vs Air France airlines provide comfortable seating featuring a seat pitch of 31 inches. However, KLM’s A330 seats are a bit wider at 17.5 inches.
• Air France’s A350 seats measure 17 inches. In terms of design, both cabins are visually appealing, but Air France gets a slight edge with its patterned pillow covers.

Inflight Entertainment (IFE)

• Air France excels in this aspect. Although both airlines offer a good range of movies and TV shows, Air France’s A350 is equipped with a tail camera that enhances the experience during takeoff, landing, or cruising. 
• KLM aircraft lack this feature. Furthermore, both airlines provide free messaging Wi-Fi on select planes, which is a nice bonus.

Food and Dining

Air France improves the dining experience by offering printed menus, which adds a personal touch. When it comes to the food, both airlines provide satisfactory meals, Air France has a slight advantage in taste. Of course, this can differ based on the route and individual preferences.

Service

Air France improves the dining experience by offering printed menus, which adds a personal touch. When it comes to the food, both airlines provide satisfactory meals, but Air France has a slight advantage in taste. Of course, this can differ based on the route and individual preferences.

Aircraft

Both airlines have a few older aircraft in their fleets, which might affect the cabin experience. For instance, KLM still flies some ageing Boeing 747s, while Air France has older A330s on specific routes. However, both airlines are actively working on modernizing their fleets, so these occurrences are becoming less common.

Sustainability Efforts

KLM is at the forefront of sustainability initiatives. Their “Fly Responsibly” campaign and focus on biofuels demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. Moreover, they have introduced eco-friendly catering options, enabling passengers to savor their meals while being mindful of their impact on the planet.

Upgrades and Loyalty

Air France has been quite generous with upgrades. I’ve been upgraded twice from economy to premium economy, even after I shared a critical review. In contrast, KLM hasn’t acknowledged my loyalty as much, although they did once send me a handwritten birthday card.

How to Earn Flying Blue Miles

Flying Blue is the frequent flyer program of Air France and KLM, and joining is free and straightforward. Simply sign up online to start earning miles.

Earning Miles Through Flights

KLM vs Air France Flights:

Miles are earned based on how much you spend on tickets (excluding taxes) and your Flying Blue elite status. The program calculates earnings in euros, so the amounts are adjusted accordingly.

Alternative Ways to Earn Flying Blue Miles Beyond Flights

• Hotel Stays: You can earn Flying Blue miles by booking accommodations with hotel partners like Marriott, Hilton, IHG, Choice Hotels, Hyatt, and others.
• Car Rentals: Accumulate miles when you rent cars from companies such as Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Budget.
• Buy Miles: If you’re short on miles, you have the option to buy them. Prices begin at approximately $63 for 2,000 miles, with a maximum of 75,000 miles available for over $2,100. Be on the lookout for bonus promotions that can make purchasing miles more economical.

Bonus Miles for Elite Members

Flying Blue members with elite status earn extra miles in addition to the base rate, making it even more rewarding to achieve status upgrades. Since Flying Blue operates as a revenue-based program, your earnings in miles increase with your spending.

Partner Airlines

You can also earn miles by flying with partner airlines of Air France-KLM, which include both SkyTeam and non-SkyTeam members.

How It Works

Miles earned on partner flights are based on the distance you travel, multiplied by a percentage that corresponds to your ticket’s fare class. For example, business class tickets accumulate more miles than economy class tickets.

Air France-KLM Change and Cancellation Policies

Regardless of whether you’re paying with cash or redeeming miles, it’s important to be aware of the change and cancellation policies for your reservation.

Cash Tickets:

• The ability to change or cancel depends on your ticket’s fare conditions. To review your options:
• Log in to the airline’s website.
• Go to My Bookings to see if changes or cancellations are allowed and if fees apply.

Award Tickets:

You can change or cancel tickets booked with miles up until the latest check-in time for your flight. Keep in mind that fees might apply based on the ticket and fare rules.

Final Thoughts

KLM vs Air France provide outstanding long-haul economy class experiences, making it challenging to pick one over the other. Air France excels in inflight entertainment, dining options, and upgrade possibilities, while KLM is known for its seamless airport transfer process and dedication to sustainability. In the end, your choice may depend on personal preferences like seating comfort, available routes, or benefits from loyalty programs. No matter which airline you select, both offer dependable service, comfort, and good value for long-haul travel.

Frequently Asked Questions