Flying with KLM: FAQs, Rules, and Passenger Rights

Here is KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines punctuality data from the last 7 days of operations to help you set realistic expectations:

• On-time performance: 61.67%. This means 3110 of the 5043 total flights operated arrived within 15 minutes of their scheduled gate time.

• Cancelled flights: 844 flights. Of these cancellations, 425 were on domestic routes and 419 were on international routes.

• Major delays: 15 flights. These flights experienced significant delays, arriving more than 3 hours after their scheduled time.

Flight numbers shown are estimates, based on internal databases and third parties.

Over the last week, KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines international flights had:

• a cancellation rate of 9.33%, and

• a severe delay rate (>180 minutes) of 0.33%.

The airline operated 4490 international flights during this period.

Reliability often depends on the specific route, airport, and external factors like weather or air traffic control restrictions.

KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines performance can vary, but AirHelp’s data offers an objective snapshot. KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines has an AirHelp Score of 7.39 out of 10, which evaluates airlines based on on-time performance, claim processing, and customer service.

Like all major carriers, the airline has experienced incidents in its history, but it continuously invests in pilot training, aircraft maintenance, and safety protocols. Modern aviation is statistically one of the safest modes of transportation, and KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines adheres to strict international and UK safety regulations.

KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines operates a comprehensive global network, flying to destinations across Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East from its hub in Amsterdam.

KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines's primary and sole hub is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), which serves as the central gateway for its entire network.

KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines is a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance. Its core partner is Air France (as part of the Air France-KLM Group), with other key partners including Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic. It also collaborates extensively with other SkyTeam members and codeshare partners.

If you’re flying on a codeshare operated by another airline, your passenger rights usually depend on the operating carrier (the airline that actually flies the plane). However, if that airline is UK-based or your flight departs from the UK/EU, you may be entitled to compensation under UK 261 (or EC 261) for eligible delays or cancellations.

Let AirHelp check your eligibility and file the claim.

You may bring one carry-on bag and one personal item. Carry-on size limits and liquid restrictions follow EU and local security regulations.

Checked bag allowances depend on your route and ticket type. Weight and size limits apply, and fees may be charged for additional or overweight bags.

You should report it immediately to the Baggage Service Office (or at the KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines service desk, if available) and get a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) as proof. On international flights, your baggage rights are protected by the Montreal Convention, which also applies to flights departing from or arriving in the UK.

If you are an AirHelp+ member, you can let AirHelp handle your claim to obtain the reimbursement and compensation you are due (up to approximately £1,550).

You can check in online on the KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines website or mobile app starting 30 hours before departure. You can also check in at a kiosk or the service counter at the airport.

For flights within Europe/Schengen, arriving at least 90 minutes before departure is recommended. For intercontinental flights, plan for at least 2 to 3 hours before departure.

Prohibited items include explosives, flammable liquids, and many sharp objects. Common items like certain lighters and gel-type sports equipment are also not allowed. Check the UK airport security regulations website and KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines's prohibited items list for full details.

You can track your flight on the KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines app or website, or use the flight tracker built into the AirHelp app.

Compensation rights depend on the laws that apply to your specific flight. Flights departing from the United Kingdom or operated by a UK airline may qualify for compensation of up to £520 under UK 261, while EU-related flights fall under EC 261, provided the airline is responsible for the delay.

With our compensation checker, you can check for free whether you are entitled to compensation.

It depends on numerous circumstances, such as the law governing that specific flight, the notice period with which the airline communicates the cancellation, and the delay of the replacement flight. Under UK 261 and EC 261 laws, you may be entitled to assistance at the airport and compensation of up to £520.

Airlines first ask for volunteers to give up their seats in exchange for compensation. If not enough volunteers are found and you are involuntarily denied boarding, you are entitled to compensation under UK 261, EC 261, and other local aviation regulations.

You can file your claim directly on the airline's website. For flight compensation under EU law, submit it through AirHelp: we’ve won compensation for 3 million passengers worldwide. AirHelp operates on a no-win, no-fee basis so you don’t pay us anything upfront.

KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines provides services for passengers with mobility, hearing, and vision disabilities. Common services include wheelchair assistance and pre-boarding.

You can request these accommodations during booking, via the airline's website or mobile app, or by contacting their customer service in advance. Learn more about rights for passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility here.

KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines provides family boarding, child seat guidelines, and infant travel options depending on age and route.

KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines allows small dogs and cats (max 8 kg including carrier) to travel in the cabin for a fee, subject to size and carrier restrictions (limited spots; not allowed in Business on long-haul). Larger pets may travel in the hold on some routes, but strict regulations (especially for snub-nosed breeds) and additional fees apply. Health and vaccination documents are always required. It is essential to check KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines's specific pet policy well in advance of your trip.

Wi-Fi is available on most long-haul and many European aircraft. The high-speed Starlink rollout (shared with Air France) is ongoing, with free unlimited access (including streaming) for Flying Blue members on equipped planes. On non-Starlink aircraft, it remains a paid service with various data packages; Flying Blue members with certain status levels may receive complimentary access or discounts. Full fleet coverage is expected by the end of 2026.

All long-haul aircraft feature seatback screens with on-demand entertainment. On short- and medium-haul flights within Europe, most aircraft do not have seatback screens; passengers can stream entertainment to their personal devices for free via the KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines app.

Complimentary meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages are provided on all flights, with the service level depending on flight duration, destination, and cabin class (Economy, Premium Comfort, Business Class).

Complimentary beer, wine, and spirits are served in all cabin classes on most flights. The selection, which includes Dutch beers and spirits, is more extensive in premium cabins.

Yes, you may bring your own food on board, provided it complies with airport security regulations. Liquids (such as sauces or yoghurts) must generally adhere to the rules for carrying liquids.

The airline was founded in 1919, making it the world's oldest airline still operating under its original name.

KLM-Royal Dutch Airlines's corporate headquarters, known as the KLM Head Office, are located on the grounds of Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) in Amstelveen, Netherlands.