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How Does KLM Seat Selection Work?

Last Updated on March 27, 2024 by Rick Spiegel

While booking tickets the airline company provides the option of seat selection, which helps the passengers to select the seat as per their preferences. Passengers have the privilege to opt for a window, aisle, or middle seat. KLM Airlines also offers the opportunity to select the seats before the flight departure. However, travelers need to be aware of the KLM Seat Selection Policy to take advantage of it. Flyers can grab a better seat within their budget by learning it.

Table of Contents

Points to Remember

• A passenger can select a seat once the check-in window opens.
• Travelers can select a standard seat at no additional cost. However, if the passengers want to book a preferred seat, then they have to pay additional charges.
• Passengers cannot make the seat selection after getting the boarding pass.
• Travelers can make advance seat selections only on KLM-operated flights.
• Flying Blue members have the privilege of selecting extra comfortable seats and regular seats at no extra charges or a discount.
• Also, travelers are eligible to get a refund for seat selection under a few circumstances that we will discuss later.
• Passengers can also purchase an extra seat on KLM Airlines.

What are the Seat Dimensions on KLM Airlines?

The dimensions of the seat on KLM Airlines vary according to the aircraft. However, the width and pitch of the seats are adequate for a comfortable journey. The Business Class seats are convertible to flatbed whereas Economy Class has standard seats. 

How Do I Select Seats at KLM Flight?

Once the check-in window opens, passenger can make a seat selection request for their KLM flight. KLM Airlines opens the check-in window 24 hours before the flight departure.

Flying Blue Silver, Gold, and Platinum members can choose their seats for free before check-in.  Flying Blue Silver and Gold Members can make a seat selection 72 hours before the flight. On the other hand, passengers with Platinum status can select a seat anytime.

KLM  Airlines provides a user-friendly online platform to its passengers that allows travelers to change their seats before the flight. This convenient feature gives the passenger the freedom to customize their journey. To make a KLM seat selection online, passengers can follow these steps:

• Passengers can Visit the KLM Airlines website at www.klm.com .
• Now Click on the “ My Trip ” tab at the top of the page.
• After that, enter your “ booking code ” and “ last name ” to retrieve your booking.
• Passengers can select the flight for which they want to request a seat selection.
• Click on the “ Seat selection ” button.
• After that, follow the on-screen instructions to view the KLM seat map.
• Now, pick seats from the available vacancies.
• Lastly, pay the additional charges.

If passengers want to change their seat selection later, passenger can do so by clicking on the “ Manage booking ” tab and selecting the flight they want to change the seat selection for.

How to Reserve an Extra Seat on KLM Airlines ?

• Travelers flying on KLM flights can also book an extra seat. KLM provides the facility to purchase an empty seat.
• According to KLM Airlines, the Empty seat is considered as standard Economy Class seats. It means that only standard seats in the Economy Class are available as ‘Empty Seats’.
• During the duration of the flight, no passenger will occupy the Empty seat next to you.
• Travelers can purchase the extra seat after completing the booking process. The additional charges will apply. Passengers can enjoy all the facilities they receive with the Standard Economy seats.
• However, travelers will not get any additional hand luggage allowance on the purchase of Empty seats.
• Travelers will receive a refund amount for the purchase of Empty Seat if KLM Airlines cancels the flight. Also, during the flight change if the airline is unavailable to provide extra seats, then the passenger is eligible for a refund.

How to Upgrade Your Seat?

KLM provides you with the option of seat selection while booking a flight with KLM. You are also provided with the option of a seat upgrade, in which you can pay an extra fee and get your seat upgraded as per your comfort. Passengers with booking on KLM flights can upgrade to higher cabin class even at the last minute. However, upgrades are subject to availability. Flyers with Economy Class tickets can upgrade to Premium Comfort and Business Class.

• Travelers can upgrade to higher cabin class while checking in online
• KLM also allows them to upgrade through the Kiosk machine at the airport even after checking in.
• Sometimes, KLM also provides last-minute upgrade offers for a particular flight segment of the itinerary.

Does KLM Charge for Seat Selection?

• If a passenger is willing to select a standard seat in Economy Class, then there are no additional charges.
• KLM Airlines doesn’t charge any additional amount for the seat booking for Flying Blue members with Gold, Silver, and Platinum status.
• However, normal passengers have to pay a seat selection fee on KLM Airlines to reserve a seat in Premium Comfort and Business Class.
• The seat selection fee ranges between $21 to $90. The price variation depends on the cabin class and flight route.

KLM Seat Selection Fee Refund

Travelers who have made paid seat selection are eligible for a refund. There are certain conditions that travelers should satisfy to receive a refund.

• If passengers cancel the booking within 24 hours of KLM seat selection, then they will receive a refund.
• The passenger’s KLM flight was canceled.
• If the airline changes the aircraft and does not allocate the same seat on the other aircraft, then travelers can request a refund.
• Passengers miss a flight due to KLM Airlines.
• The same seat number has been transferred to a different aircraft type, but it has changed features (for example, the window seat is now the middle seat).
• In case passenger is no longer seated next to their travel companion.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

Can you choose seats on klm for free.

Yes, you can choose a seat on KLM Airlines for free. If you select a standard seat in Economy Class, then there are no additional charges. Also, if you are Flying Blue Gold, Silver, and Platinum members, then you can select a seat for free.

Are KLM Economy Comfort seats worth it?

KLM Economy seats have a width of 17.5 inches and a pitch of 31 inches. The seats have 5 cm more legroom than standard seats on flights within Europe and 10 cm more on intercontinental flights. The seats are in front of the Economy Class and thus passengers can board quickly.

Can I buy an extra seat on KLM Airlines?

Yes, you can purchase an extra seat on KLM Airlines. Once you reserve a ticket on KLM, then you can buy an extra seat by paying additional charges. KLM permits extra seat purchase only as Standard Economy seats.

What is the difference between an Economy comfort seat and a Standard seat on KLM?

Both seats are inside the Economy Class. However, Comfort seats are at the front of the cabin. Thus, travelers can board and get off the plane easily. The Economy Comfort seats have more legroom space than Standard Seats. Also, standard seats do not have any charging outlets whereas Economy Comfort seats have power outlets.

Can passengers change their seats on KLM flights?

KLM Airlines provides its passengers with the facility to edit or change their seat preferences by simply editing in the ‘My Trips’ option. However, this facility cannot be used by Economy passengers.

What is the difference between economy and premium comfort on KLM?

KLM Premium Comfort Class is higher than Economy Class. Economy Class seats have a width of 17.5 inches and a pitch of 31 inches. On the other hand, the Premium Comfort cabin has more comfortable seats with a pitch of 35 inches. Travelers get better amenities in the Premium Comfort Class.

How do passengers reserve KLM Airlines flight seats?

The official website of KLM Airlines can be of use when reserving seats. On the first page, under the “My Trips” option, passengers can access their trip details. Under the KLM seat selection option, passengers can choose the seat they want and proceed with the reservation procedure by following the instructions displayed on the screen.

Is the KLM seat selection fee refundable?

Yes, KLM Airlines refunds the seat selection fee under a few circumstances.

• KLM cancels the flight.
• The airline does not allow the same seat in case of a flight change.
• Travelers cancel the flight within 24 hours of the purchase of a seat.

More On KLM Airlines

how to contact KLM Airlines

Rick Spiegel

I'm Rick Spiegel, a dedicated traveler and writer with a passion for all things related to airline travel. My love for exploring new destinations and my commitment to helping fellow travelers navigate the skies have led me to create a space where you can find all the information you need to contact airlines and resolve air travel issues seamlessly. With years of experience in the aviation industry, I've made it my mission to provide you with expertly crafted airline travel guides, ensuring that your journeys are as smooth as possible.

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Klm seat types in economy; overview and discounts.

December 13, 2019 by InsideFlyer

This is a translation of  KLM Stoelopties in Economy

KLM  has various types of seats in longhaul Economy Class; for instance Economy Comfort, seats with extra legroom and preferred seats. Since last year there is also a surcharge for selecting a standard seat in advance. In this article you will find an overview of the different seat types with  KLM . Are you a Flying Blue or Skyteam Elite member? Then you will also see which options are available with a discount! Even as Flying Blue Explorer member you can possibly reserve a seat with a discount.

Economy Comfort

Economy Comfort (EC) at KLM means the same seat and service as in Economy, but with an increased amount of legroom and recline. Hence it is  not  comparable with a Premium Economy product which is a different class of travel. The seats are located in the first rows of Economy which also means you are among the first passengers off the aircraft on arrival. EC seats are distinguishable by a different color for the headcover and a small divider between EC and Economy. Economy Comfort is available on every longhaul aircraft type. The extra legroom is 4 inches and the seatback reclines twice as much compared with a regular seat.

Pricing depends on the route, season and how far in advance you reserve the extra option. Charges vary between 60 and 180 Euro per one way on intercontinental flights and 6 to 20 euro on European flights.

Seat with Extra Legroom

Extra legroom seats with KLM are for example seats in the emergency exit row (EER). Due to their location, most of the time there is no seat directly in front which results in a generous amount of legroom. Do keep in mind the seats have a reduced width due to the presence of the traytable and IFE screen in the (immovable) armrest. Also passengers are required to place their luggage in the overhead bins during take-off and landing. Prices vary between 50 and 90 Euro on longhaul routes and 10 to 30 euro on European flights. Some passengers, for example unaccompanied minors, travellers with infants or baby’s and disabled people, are not allowed to be seated in the emergency exit row.

Preferred Seat

Preferred seats are the seats in the first rows behind Economy Comfort. Apart from their location close to the exit these seats do  not  offer extra legroom, service or comfort. The selling point is that preferred seats offer a quicker exit on arrival.

On the Boeing 747-400 and Boeing 777-300ER there are also seats in a row of two designated as preferred seat; ideal for couples travelling together. The downside is that these are the seats at the very back of the plane.

The fee is €30 per flight.

KLM Standard Seat Selection

KLM has introduced a fee for selecting standard seats in advance, both for European flights (€10) and intercontinental flights (€20). Seat selection during online check-in remains free of charge.

Discount for Flying Blue and Skymiles Elite members

Flying Blue Elite members receive a discount up to 100% on all seating types with KLM. As part of the transatlantic joint venture with Delta Airlines, Skymiles elite members receive the same discounts when travelling with KLM. Discounts are not valid when paying with miles.

Flying Blue Platinum and Skymiles Diamond and Platinum Medaillion members receive a 100% discount on every seating option. This means these members can select Economy Comfort, extra legroom and preferred seats for free. This is only valid for the status member. If these member are travelling with other passengers in the same booking, they can select a standard seat for free.

Flying Blue Gold and Skymiles Gold members receive a 50% discount on Economy Comfort seats and seats with extra legroom. Preferred seats and standard seat selection are free of charge. Again, companions in the same reservation may only select a standard seat free of charge.

Flying Blue Silver and Skymiles Silver Medallion members receive a discount of 25% on Economy Comfort, extra legroom and preferred seats. Standard seat selection is free of charge for the status member and companions in the same booking.

Discount for Skyteam Elite members

For Elite members of other Skyteam frequent flyer programs there is a more limited discount policy. There is no discount for Economy Comfort, extra legroom or preferred seats. Skyteam Elite and Elite Plus members, and their companions, may select standard seats free of charge.

Discount for Flying Blue Ivory members

Flying Blue Explorer members (basic entry level, free of charge) receive a 10% discount on all paid seat types. So it pays of to enroll for Flying Blue if you would like to reserve an Economy Comfort seat, a seat with extra leg room or a preferred seat. Even as Skyteam Elite (Plus) member it is better to first purchase the paid seat as FB Explorer and then change your frequent flyer number to the status program.

The discount is not valid for standard seat selection though.

Reserve your seat option

Selecting on of these seat types is possible during booking. If you decide later to purchase a certain seating option, you can do that online through  Manage My Booking , the KLM Reservation Center, your travel agency or KLM social media. If available, you can also do this during check-in or at the airport. Sometimes there are last minute offers. Do note that Economy Comfort prices become more expensive nearer the date of the flight. Unfortunately, prices per route are not published anymore. Therefore it is necessary  to log in  to check the current prices for your flight. It is also worth mentioning that you are not entitled to a refund if you voluntarily change your flight.

If bought onboard, the prices may be higher and status discoutns do not apply.

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Air France and KLM Will Charge for Business Class Seat Selection

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Air france and klm’s new premium seat fees, new business class seat assignment fee trend, final thoughts.

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A pair of European airlines have announced plans to start charging business class customers for choosing their seats in advance.

As soon as next week, Air France and KLM’s new policy — which is sure to be met with derision by premium passengers — will go into place.

Here’s what you should know.

As of Tuesday, April 4, 2023, Air France and KLM will charge business class passengers a fee to pick their seats in advance of the check-in window . This mirrors a policy the airlines already have in place for long-haul economy flights.

The new fees will apply for long-haul flights operated by the 2 airlines starting on April 13, 2023 . However, flights to and from North America are excluded initially from the new policy — although there’s no indication as to if or when the new scheme will be applied to long-haul North American flights.

The fees will range from 70 Euros to 90 Euros (~$76 to $97) per long-haul flight, though the airlines note that FlyingBlue Silver, Gold, and Platinum members, in addition to corporate flyers (with the exception of bluebiz) will be exempt from paying these new fees. All business class flyers will be able to select a seat free of charge once check-in for a given flight opens.

Hot Tip: Looking to redeem miles for a trip to Europe? Learn about all the best ways to earn tons of FlyingBlue miles to bolster your balance!

Air France and KLM aren’t the first airlines to charge business class customers — many of whom have paid thousands of dollars for a ticket already — for an advance seat assignment.

British Airways has charged business class passengers to pick seats in advance for years. And another pair of European giants — Lufthansa and SWISS — are gearing up to roll out their new business class products , each of which offers several different seat types.

We’re not trying to give them any ideas, but it stands to reason that the 2 Star Alliance carriers will set different prices for the different seat types they offer.

This is an unfortunate new policy from Air France and KLM. The 2 SkyTeam airlines are following in the footsteps of British Airways by charging passengers even more to pick a seat in the business class cabin, even though the tickets themselves may have already cost several thousand dollars.

We hope we don’t see more airlines across the continent implement these kinds of fees, but we’re not overly optimistic.

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• KLM seat selection and policy

Choosing the right Seat is crucial for a flight journey as it is directly related to the comfort of your trip. KLM Airlines allows you to reserve your preferred Seat when booking to save yourself from hassles at the airport and make your journey comfortable and exciting.

You also have the option to get a seat randomly when checking in at the airport, surpassing the KLM Seat selection process through the My Trip functionality of the website. If you want to select a seat at KLM, reading their selection policy first is better to make the process smooth. Some of the crucial points are listed below.

• You can select your Seat online if you have booked the KLM flight through their website/app, call centers, or booking offices.
• You can choose your Seat 24 hours before the flight's scheduled departure at the time of web/online check-in.
• If you surpass all the time frames to select your Seat, KLM will allot you a seat, and if you want to change that Seat, you have to pay the required charges.
• Passengers having physical disabilities can select their seats only at the airport after document verification.

Benefits of seat selection

• There are several benefits of KLM seat selection in advance rather than waiting to get a random seat during check-in at the airport. Some of the benefits are mentioned below for your help.
• You get to sit together with your family or group as airlines have no obligations to provide you with the seats together. So it's better to book your seats in advance if traveling with your family or friends.
• Airlines hold the seats at Check-in for emergency and operational purposes. You can reserve your preferred seats when booking a comfortable journey.
• Advance seat selection reduces stress while checking in at the airport. You may get an Unfavorable seat at the check-in, which may compromise your flying experience.

Types of seats offered at KLM Airlines

There are different types of seats offered by KLM Airlines to its passengers. You can read the segment below to learn more about it.

• Standard Seat: These seats are designed ergonomically, having a standard legroom of 76 cm and recline of 9 cm.
• Economy comfort seat: These seats are in the front of the Economy class so that you will be the first Economy class passenger to board the plane. These seats have legroom of 81 cm and recline of 13-14 cm with In-seat power.
• Extra Legroom seats: These seats in front of the Emergency Exit have extra legroom. On average, these seats have 15 cm more legroom and 9 cm more recline than standard seats.
• Front standard seats: These seats are also ergonomically designed, having a legroom of 76 cm and a recline of 12 cm. You also get a 9-11 inch personal entertainment system in front of your Seat. You will also be the first to disembark the flight.

KLM seat selection fee

The KLM Seat Selection Fee depends on the route of the flight. However, at KLM, Airlines you have to pay a charge between USD 9 to USD 75 approximately, depending on your seat type.

Do you pay for seat selection on KLM?

You can choose a standard seat at KLM Airlines free of cost during check-in. You must pay the appropriate charges ranging between 9-75 USD if you select a seat in advance other than Standard seats.

How do I select my seats on KLM Airlines?

You can select your Seat at KLM Airlines using the modes below

• Online through the website
• By calling a representative.

Let's quickly glance at both ways.

Online through the website:

You can select your Seat online to complete the process quickly. You can do it anywhere, as described below, using your phone or laptop.

• Open the website www.klm.com
• Click the My Trip option in the Menu Bar.
• Enter your Booking code and last name to search for your booking details.
• Mark the flight in which you want to select the Seat and click the add services option.
• Choose your desired Seat and proceed to the payments page.
• Pay the required fee online, and your Seat gets selected.
• Now you can check in to get the boarding pass.

By calling a representative:

You can also select your Seat by calling KLM Airlines at 1-800-618-0104 and choosing the seat selection option. Share your booking details with the representative to get the available seats. Pick a seat and make the payment through IVR mode. They will reserve your Seat and confirm it through an endorsement email.

Can you select seats for free on KLM?

When the passenger has completed the booking process, they can easily reserve the desired seats during check-in; however, you can choose the Standard Seats on KLM for free with no additional costs. If you want more comfortable seats and extra legroom, the passenger may be required to pay the fee. Still, there are a few circumstances under which passengers can enjoy the complimentary  KLM seat selection  option with no extra hidden charges.

• Passengers who have booked KLM Business or First Class can get the complimentary seat selection choice without additional charges.
• If you are a KLM frequent flyer and have a membership in the Airline loyalty program, then the Airline allows you to reserve the seat of your choice for free.
• However, if you have booked other classes, you may be required to pay the seat selection charges; however, no additional fee will be charged for standard seat selection.

What is a KLM Preferred Seat?

If you have booked a KLM flight but are wondering which is the preferred seat, then it is located behind the first rows of Economy Comfort. Still, they do not offer extra legroom, comfort, or other services because these seats are at the exit door. They are the most preferred seats as they provide quicker exits upon Arrival. 

Is it worth paying for Economy Comfort on KLM?

KLM Economy Comfort seat is worth paying for as it offers extra legroom and several other benefits to make the traveler's journey more relaxing and comfortable. These seats are located at the front of the Economy Class, so the passengers who have chosen Economy Comfort are the first on the arrival list. The several features of Economy Comfort seats are mentioned below.

• KLM Economy comfort seats provide 5cm more legroom than Standard Economy Seats.
• Also, these seats are more reclined than the standard seats.
• You can also enjoy the priority check-in and flight boarding options.
• If you are on an intercontinental flight, the KLM comfort seats will provide 10cm more legroom than the Standard Seats.
• However, intercontinental flight comfort offers 4-5cm more recliner seats.
• Travelers can enjoy a personal entertainment system of 9-11 inches.

Does KLM seat families together?

KLM Airline staff assigns accessible seats in Standard Economy and other classes, but there is no guarantee the seats will be available according to your choice. To make this more easy and comfortable, Airlines allows travelers to select their desired seats to ensure that the families can sit together during the trip.

KLM Seat Selection Policy:

Before reserving the preferred seat option, passengers should know the essential points of the  KLM Seat Selection Policy,  discussed below.

• KLM Standard Seats does not charge a seat selection fee.
• You should pay the charges to select the Economy Comfort seats.
• You can reserve the Business class seats before the Check-in starts, which may be chargeable depending on several factors.
• Flying Blue members and Skymiles members can choose their preferred seats for free.

How does KLM seat selection work?

When you book a flight ticket with KLM, they offer various seats such as economy, business, and premium economy. You can select the seat to your comfort, and there are some rules for it. If you select the seat while booking a ticket, then the KLM will not charge any fees, and after check-in,  KLM will charge fees for it that rely on the ticket type, destiation and time. There are numerous ways and policies for  KLM seat selection , which we will discuss in the read below.

How do I select a seat on KLM?

You can use an online medium to select the seat on KLM. This medium is one of the fastest and simplest ways. For seat selection, you must go through the steps described below:

• Open the official web page of KLM.
• On the homepage, you will see the My Trip tab. 
• Under that tab, click on the Seat Selection link.
• Fill out the required details in the following sections and tap on the continue option.
• Details of the flight will be fetched on the screen. Scroll down and click on the Select a Seat option.a
• Once you complete the process, the airline will send a validation text via email.

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How to Navigate Costly Airline Seat Selection Fees

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Airlines always seem to have one more trick up their sleeves for adding fees to the cost of airfare. Anyone who has flown in the past few years knows that some airlines now charge for basics, like carry-on bags and a printed boarding ticket. Yet one sneaky charge is often ignored by even savvy travelers: seat selection fees.

On the surface, there’s nothing complicated about these fees. Some airlines will let you select a specific seat for a markup on the base cost of your ticket. However, the way the fees are presented is often misleading, making it seem like you must select a seat and pay the accompanying fee.

A seat selection chart from Frontier Airlines.

This approach, in which companies add fees throughout the checkout process, is called “drip pricing” by experts. And research indicates that it's an effective sales tactic, both for confusing customers and driving up overall prices.

But here’s the thing: You almost never have to pay these fees. Here’s how to avoid — or at least minimize — these pesky fees.

Ways to avoid seat selection fees

Skip seat selection altogether.

Though it might sound scary, there's one weird trick airlines don’t want you to know: You don’t have to select a seat. On most airlines, you'll get assigned a seat at check-in or at the gate if you don’t already have one.

Some airlines make it seem like you must (or at least should) select a seat during checkout. Frontier Airlines even has a graphic interstitial page telling you why selecting a seat is such a great option.

Don’t fall for it. You can always skip seat selection and save the money, but do keep a few things in mind:

Skipping seat selection doesn’t mean you won’t get a seat on the flight.

You might get stuck in the middle seat if you don’t pay for one.

Even if seat selection is free, you might want to skip it if only lousy seats are available (see the "upgrade hack” below).

Pick an airline with lower seat fees

Part of what’s so confusing about these fees is how inconsistently the industry is applying them. Unlike change and cancellation fees, which most U.S. airlines recently abolished, many airlines seem to be increasing the upcharge on selecting seats.

But some are charging much more than others.

According to an analysis of airline fees by NerdWallet, Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines charge the least for seat selection, while Frontier and Spirit Airlines charge the most.

Airlines with modest seat fees (less than $10 each leg):

Airlines with high seat fees ($15-plus each leg):

Southwest Airlines doesn’t technically charge for nor allow seat selection in the same way as other airlines, so it's excluded from this data. But you won’t get charged a seat selection fee on Southwest during checkout, so it’s also a good option.

Roll the dice with an upgrade hack

As a regular, non-frequent flyer, it’s hard to get your seat upgraded these days. Yet skipping seat selection sometimes offers the opportunity to get bumped into premium seating.

Here’s how it works. Airlines now offer a “premium economy” fare or similar. Sometimes, all of the good seats — including the exit rows — are considered premium. The airlines try to charge extra for these seats, but if nobody takes them and the flight is full, they have to assign them to somebody.

Specifically, airlines will assign these empty, better seats to those passengers who haven't selected a seat. So if you put yourself in this pool, you have a chance of scoring an even better seat than those who paid extra for advance seat selection.

Of course, there’s a potential downside: You could very well get stuck in a middle seat in the back of the plane rather than getting upgraded. But if you notice that your flight is full and not many passengers have upgraded to the good main cabin seats, skipping seat selection altogether can be an expert-level travel move.

» Learn more: How families can get seats together on a plane

Don’t pay for advance seat selection

Airlines are playing the same game. They want to show the lowest fares possible on search results, then upsell you during checkout. This drip-pricing tactic is a pain for passengers . Charging for seat selection is one way airlines try to make a buck at the last minute.

Know your options and avoid their trickery. Skip seat selection altogether or fly an airline with limited seat fees, like Alaska, Hawaiian or JetBlue. Each charges little or nothing for choosing a seat. Worst case, you’ll end up in the middle seat. Best case, you’ll get a seat with extra legroom.

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KLM no-fee Seat Assignment? - Air Travel Forum

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KLM no-fee Seat Assignment?

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We have an upcoming trip on KLM from FCO to SFO (via AMS).

Any thoughts, or previous experiences with trans-atlantic KLM flights and seat assignment? Suggestions?

If you really want to sit together ... and that's perfectly reasonable ... then pre-book the seats.

Chances are you will be seated together ... but like life there are no guarantees.

Of course, I get that. Just wondering if people also have more info on how the seats are distributed or have flown this route to see if there is any idea of what to expect. Do they tend to assign middle row seats first? windows first? randomly? Part of choosing the paid seats would be to also consider selecting a section that won't get crowded out with the last minute assignments.

Simply pick your seats during online check-in 24 hours before departure.

Your seat assignment seems to be important to you. If waiting until 24 hour check in to know whether you are seated together makes you nervous, just go ahead and pay the seat assignment fee.

I'm not nervous. I am curious about the process because I've yet to fly KLM economy. If anyone has exoeriences on the actual process, I'd love to hear about it! :)

Don't know if this helps you much.

The seats aren't assigned randomly. At T-24 you can select from the remaining seats at OLCI.

I would keep an eye on the seat map and if the seats start to fill up and there are very few seats left together, you can make a decision.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Air France-KLM Business Class Seat Assignment Fees: Unwelcome Yet Reasonable

Air France-KLM will begin collecting a fee for non-status passengers to pre-reserve seats in business class. While an unwelcome and customer-unfriendly move, the policy change is reasonable .

Air France-KLM Will Charge For Advance Seating In Business Class

As flagged by One Mile At A Time , Air France and KLM will begin to charge for advance seat assignments on longhaul routes starting on April 4, 2023 for travel on or After April 13, 2023. Seat assignments will remain free once online check-in opens 30 hours prior to flight departure.

Currently, North American routes are exempt (the joint venture relationship with Delta Air Lines, which sells many Air France-KLM codeshares and does not charge for seat assignments on its own flights, likely complicates this).

Passengers with FlyingBlue elite status (including Silver level) will be exempt from seat assignment fees and can continue to assign seats at no charge at booking.

Air France-KLM Business Class Seat Fees: Reasonable Or Unreasonable?

Let me start by saying this is a customer-unfriendly move and I do not support or celebrate it. Furthermore, I do believe that when charging such a premium for business class, a choice of seat should be available at time of booking…I don’t think it is good business to unbundle this from the fare of a full-service carrier.

However, I do consider the move reasonable . First, because British Airways has done this for years and Lufthansa certainly will once it rolls out its new Allegris business class product. Copying the competition is not how carriers lead or differentiate themselves, but it is reasonable in the context of the competitive landscape Air France-KLM finds itself in.

Second, I believe this is reasonable because this does incentivize elite status in the Flying Blue program and rewards flyers who are loyal to Air France and KLM. Sure, we hate paying for a seat on our 55K business class award ticket, but I can tell you that the additional surcharge will not impact my decision to fly on Air France or KLM. If we are honest, those who can be flexible with their travel continue to find outsized value in booking premium cabin award space via Flying Blue, especially when compared to SkyMiles and other SkyTeam loyalty programs.

Some have compared this to the nickel-and-diming of resort fees, but this is not a valid analogy. Resort fees cannot be turned down: they are obligatory. These seat assignment fees, while annoying, are not mandatory: if you do not want to pay, you can still assign a seat at no charge during check-in.

I will never celebrate an airline unbundling its business class product and seemingly nickel-and-diming its valuable customers, many of whom do not pay with miles but pay thousands of dollars in cash for their tickets. Even so, the move by Air France-KLM to charge for pre-reserving business class seats is reasonable in the context of the current competitive environment. Thankfully for North American flyers, the changes do not impact us yet.

Will this move by Air France & KLM impact your decision to fly them?

About Author

Matthew Klint

Matthew is an avid traveler who calls Los Angeles home. Each year he travels more than 200,000 miles by air and has visited more than 135 countries. Working both in the aviation industry and as a travel consultant, Matthew has been featured in major media outlets around the world and uses his Live and Let's Fly blog to share the latest news in the airline industry, commentary on frequent flyer programs, and detailed reports of his worldwide travel.

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20 comments.

Having recently travelled on AF longhaul business class, I don’t see why anyone would pay to reserve a seat on these planes. All seats are the same, and all-aisle access means that there would not be any issues walking to a travelling companion for a chat. It’s not like Y where bagging an exit row can make a huge difference in comfort. (Not sure whether same applies to KLM, plus I am doing my best to avoid them after an encounter with a mouse in their non-Schengen lounge).

I think people are making a mountain out of a molehill here.

A lot of people prefer window seats, especially when traveling by themselves.

I do, too. The 1-2-1 configuration means that 50% of the seats in the cabin are by the windows, it’s extremely unlikely that you won’t be able to find one unless you check in at the very last minute.

Further proof the airline industry is un-investable.

They did this to try to make FB elite status more appealing. However, there are no real benefits of being FB Plat based in the US compared to FB Gold since they rarely even enforce the free middle seat rule on intra-Euro flights in Y and the US Plat line often goes to the call center in the Philippines.

Sure, KL and AF offer better service onboard compared to BA, but I usually fly premium cabins, and being a BA Gold, it’s nice to use the OW Emerald lounges where available or even use an AC before a domestic flight (STE+ can’t use DL’s SCs unless they’re flying an international flight).

I agree that it is reasonable, but it’s going to lead to a lot of flights where couples are separated and feel entitled to sit together because they “paid for business.” Boarding any old Club World flight to more regional destinations in the USA (AUS, MSY, PHX, etc) feels like a free for all. I feel bad for the FAs.

With AF 1-2-1 it’s doubtful that the couples will be separated. I have rarely ever seen, other than honeymoon seats on some carriers, where there are a lack of two middles together. In fact, a few of those are usually the last to go. Regardless, we both know most of these couples are not “paying for business.” If it’s so important they can cough up another 140 euros to assure it. Anyway, it’s not even being applied on flights to the U.S. at this point.

I find this perfectly acceptable. It’s not an exorbitant amount and protects the integrity of their loyalty program and those who actually spend on AF. It even extends all the way to Silver, which is generous. I would fully expect that this will also be eventually implemented for top tier Sky Team elites. Just as BA does for Emerald.

I would venture to say that most who are complaining about this are people who rarely ever pay for an AF ticket, primarily redeem points, and don’t even use Sky Team. Amazing at times the entitlement at expecting they should be given the exact same priority as AF’s most coveted flyers. If a loyalty program is to be just that, about loyalty, then this should reflect in how they reward these people. I applaud the move.

Let me add, and I say this as a OW Emerald and a Star Gold. that I have no love coming to me on Sky Team. Thus, when I redeem on AF occasionally I am perfectly fine in either accepting a lower spot on the love totem or paying a small extra to assure early what I feel I need. Honestly, I am just happy to get a cheap redemption on them and a lie flat seat to where I need to go.

Better yet this implementation should be only for those passengers flying on award ticket classes (except AF/KL elites). If you pay the cash fare for a ticket you should still be able to assign your seat for free. My take on this.

I think this is ridiculous. So you are charging over $7k for a business class seat and will have to pay extra to chose the seat? Why not add that fee on the cost of the ticket and stop with this extra fee? The same goes to hotels, just add the stupid resort fee into the cost of the room and let me decide if I want to pay for it or not.

@Santastico. At first I had exactly the same thought but it now I see it allows two ways to adjust the ticket price. Ridiculous. Just the optics tarnish the cachet of business class. Like watching a once beautiful home fall into ruin. Bit by bit

“Why not add that fee on the cost of the ticket and stop with this extra fee?” === It’s actually a bogus fee, anyway. What does it really cost an airline to give you a seat?

This hurts me, but is very reasonable.

Loyal AF travelers (elites), as a generalization, purchase much closer-in than folks transferring points for an award or booking that one-off trip. It seems a reasonable perk of loyalty to have better access to your choice of seats. United, for e.g., does this with staggered access timing to E+ seats for domestic US travel.

Of course there’s a money grab here as well – but it’s not as simple as that.

When paying a business class fare and then I am nickle’d and dime’d to boot I simply will not go! That’s why I love the Palm Beach resorts like the Four Seasons, the Breakers and Eau Palm Beach. NO RESORT FEES!

No bloggers ever call this cheap and capricious airline out for their never ending money grubbing and cheap penny pinching. Like France itself, overrated and pretentious. Sorry chumps, but you ain’t all that.

Wow, that’s harsh.

I don’t think I was defending Air France here…

The entire point of AF is that it’s not as bad as its main competitors – BA is a complete disgrace on virtually every level, and LH may generally be rather consistent and reliable but tends to deliver an underwhelming level of service across the board – whether it’s pay-for-everything in European Y, middle seats in long haul C, or even fruit flies having a little party in the LHR Senator lounge (yeah, I know some people rave about its first class, but it’s still the same lousy experience if you have to connect from/to short haul).

I am not a massive fan of AF, indeed I think that Flying Blue is diabolical, but they do seem to get the basics right most of the time. Not enough for me to consider switching my bread-and-butter European flights away from Star Alliance, but certainly worth keeping an eye on their long haul offers and maintaining a FB account for stray SkyTeam flights and double dipping on Accor stays.

People who have paid the highest fares, I think this is entirely too much to add-on. I can understand it if people are on an award ticket though.

I do find this egregious. I hope people will book away.

Yes, the 55k award ticket in J is a bargain, but you didn’t mention the ~$500 fuel surcharge that AF/KLM tacks onto the award. And now on top of that, they want a seat assignment fee? The only saving grace is that US routes are unaffected. Although, I’m sure the heads at DL and Flying Blue will sit down and figure out a way change that.

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1.1 ‘Extra comfortable seat’ means Economy Comfort seat, seat with extra legroom, seat in a row of 2, or front section seat. KLM’s extra comfortable seat types have various characteristics and do not always provide additional comfort, as this category includes regular seats that are most in demand for booking.

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A terrible business-class trend is spreading in Europe. Let's hope it doesn't come to the US

The proliferation of fees has been one of the most annoying changes over the past decade in the world of travel.

We are getting nickel and dimed with new fees ... from service fees, resort fees and baggage fees to seat assignment fees, housekeeping fees and environmental fees. You name it; they've created a charge for it.

One of the most egregious new fees we see nowadays is for airline seat assignments. It's common knowledge that most airlines charge for choosing not only extra legroom but also 'preferred' seats in coach. These standard seat assignments used to be free, but now they are the purview of elites and those willing to fork over the cash.

Seat assignment fees are spreading to business class

Air France and KLM , joint partners (partially owned by Delta Air Lines), now charge customers for advanced seat assignments in business class. These are seats that can already cost up to $10,000. But now, once you've purchased a business-class seat (or used miles to secure it), you'll need to pay between 70-90 euros ($76-$98) per flight to pick a seat ahead of time.

Related: Biden targets 'junk fees' tacked on to hotel stays, airfare and credit cards

"With the current model of seat selection, Air France and KLM business class customers are not always assured of getting their preferred seat," said Julia Gordon, communications director for Air France USA, through an email. "By introducing the Advanced Seat Reservation as a paid option, Air France and KLM will increase the chance that our customers do actually get their preferred seat."

There are some exceptions. Elite members of the joint Air France-KLM Flying Blue loyalty program are exempt from the fees, so if you are a Flying Blue Silver, Gold or Platinum member, you won't have to pay to pick your business-class seat. You'll also be exempt if you fly as part of a corporate contract with the airlines. Additionally, you can still pick a business-class seat for free among what's still available at the 24-hour check-in window.

One of the more annoying parts of this is that it was almost without any advance notice. It's already in place for flights departing after April 13. It originally included flights to North America, but that has since been pulled back because of their transatlantic joint venture with Delta and Virgin Atlantic. However, if they rolled it out once, it could easily come back.

"The execution of the Air France-KLM change is very poor — to charge someone who may be paying thousands of dollars a fee to reserve a seat in advance if they don't have frequent flyer status is insulting," said Henry Harteveldt, a travel industry analyst and president of Atmosphere Research. "As a passenger, I'm not at all happy to see AF and KLM introduce seat assignment fees for business class; as an analyst, I'm not surprised."

In fact, Harteveldt has predicted fees for business-class seats since at least 2016.

The move copies competitor British Airways , which has had a similar policy in place for years. Lufthansa, Swiss and a few other European carriers also charge for some business-class seat assignments.

Related: How stacking deals could get you a flight to Europe for under 10K miles

Will this spread to US airlines?

The worry, of course, is that it could come to the U.S. market next.

Harteveldt said that would depend on the Air France and KLM fees' effect on business.

"They will look to see if there's any shift in market share or negative reaction from corporate accounts," Harteveldt said. "Seat assignment fees will soon arrive on U.S. airlines if there is no meaningful negative reaction ... then you'll see U.S. airlines adopt the model."

It should be considered a failure by KLM and Air France since they never capitalized on the lack of fees during those years when British Airways was charging for seat assignments and they weren't, according to Harteveldt. He also said the airlines should have considered offering a stripped-down version of business class that was cheaper and came with fewer frills like extra baggage, lounge access and seat selection.

"If they introduced a de-contented fare like Emirates has that strips out stuff ... [usually included with] a basic business-class fare, that would be more understandable," Harteveldt said. "With the reduction in business travel, maybe it makes sense for airlines to consider (a basic business-class fare) if they would be able to sell more of their premium cabin seats."

"I can't say that I'm surprised," shared Brian Sumers , an industry expert who authors the Airline Observer newsletter. "Air France-KLM essentially has two competitors on that side of the Atlantic — International Airlines Group and Lufthansa Group. So, we know that British Airways has had seat fees for a very long time, and we know that Lufthansa Group has charged for its special throne seats as well."

"We also have a new development," Sumers continued. "Lufthansa is coming out with its new business class , and they are going to charge for everything. It's going to be the most complicated configuration for seat fees ever."

At the same time, Sumers said he understands the reasons behind it, including that business-class travel hasn't fully recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic.

"It used to be that an airline like Air France would sell out the front cabin to bankers and lawyers who didn't care how much money they paid," explained Sumers. "A lot of that business is gone. TPG readers probably have bought a lot of business class tickets for the summer. In their minds, they paid a lot of money for their tickets, but that premium leisure demand doesn't exactly replace the business demand on a one-to-one basis."

When I asked him if he thought U.S. carriers would copy the move, Sumers said, "I think U.S. airlines are more attuned to the political climate than passengers may think. There has been enough heat on airlines for their fees that I think people that work at airlines are taking an extra hard look before they add a new one."

Related: The 10 most outrageous resort fees

Bottom line

Unfortunately, both Harteveldt and Sumers agree that fees are here to stay.

"The consumer says they are fed up, but every day they get on budget airlines where it's fee central," Harteveldt said. "They have a Ticketmaster-like fee, fuel recovery, advance seat reservations. They charge for carry-on and checked luggage. We haven't seen any of the network airlines say maybe we can gain market share by not charging fees and going back to an all-inclusive model and advertising it aggressively. Instead, they have all copied the budget airline model of a la carte experience."

"If there was a backlash, there would have been a major shift in market share," Harteveldt continued. "We haven't seen a backlash ... where passengers are revolting against the airlines that charge fees and a shift in market share to airlines that did not charge fees. Given the profits that airlines earned from these products, they are not going to give up any of that unless it's forced on them by either the government or a change in the competitive environment."

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Passengers who have purchased a Standard fare ticket departing from the United States, Canada, Mexico**, and Papeete to Europe can choose a standard, premium, or business seat free of charge.  * If this service is not free of charge during booking, please select your seat in the  My Bookings section of the website. ** The service is free of charge only for transatlantic flights.

How to purchase this service

You can select your Standard, Premium or Business seat:   When you purchase your ticket  - on our website or via our mobile app - At an Air France ticket office or at a travel agency - by phone with the help of one of our sales representatives. After your book your flight and up to 30 hours prior to departure  - in My Bookings , - at an Air France ticket office or travel agency, - by phone with the help of one of our sales representatives.

Even more choice with seat options

Travel with more leg room, choose a Duo seat in a row of two, or be among the first to exit the aircraft… Treat yourself to extra comfort with a  Seat Option!

Families traveling with children

If you are traveling as a family with a child (14 years old or younger), we will reserve your seats, free of charge, 2 days before your flight. We will do everything we can to make sure you can travel together and sit next to each other. To make this possible, all of your family members must be included in the same booking file. Your seat location is indicated on your boarding passes, provided during online check-in or at the airport. However, if you would like specific seats, you can choose the seats you prefer in advance. In this case, you will pay online, either when booking or later in the  My bookings section of the website. Please note if you are a family traveling with a child under the age of 2, you can not purchase a Standard, Premium or Business seat online. To access to this service, please  contact us after your have booked your flight.

Children traveling alone

For children traveling alone and receiving the Kids Solo service, choice of standard seat is provided at no extra charge when purchasing the ticket. Please indicate during the booking process that your child is traveling alone. You can choose your child's seat at no extra charge: - When purchasing your ticket online - After purchasing your ticket, in My bookings .

Changes to your seat selection

If you wish to change your flight or your travel dates, you can transfer your preselected Standard, Premium, or Business seat over to your new flight via My Bookings .. If the seat you initially selected is not available on your new flight, you may request a refund in the "Contact us" section of the website. For security, safety or operational reasons, we may be required to change the seat you reserved. If you are not satisfied with the new seat selection, you can: - Change it in  My bookings - Obtain a refund online, by completing the request form provided on the “Contact us” page.

Review the General Conditions of Sale

Your flight options at a glance

Cabin layout