Upgrading Your KLM Economy Ticket to Premium Economy
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines offers premium economy seating on many long-haul flights, providing additional comfort and amenities over standard economy class. This guide covers everything you need to know about upgrading your KLM economy ticket to premium economy.
What is KLM Premium Economy?
KLM's premium economy cabin offers wider seats with extra legroom, amenity kits, an enhanced dining experience, and priority services compared to economy class. Key features include:
- Seats with 38-inch pitch and 7-inch recline
- Width between armrests of 18.5 inches
- Footrests
- Welcome drinks
- Personal amenity kits
- Enhanced meal service
- Additional movie options
- Priority check-in and boarding
The premium economy cabin onboard KLM's Boeing 787 aircraft have a 2-3-2 seat configuration, while the Airbus A330 features a more private 2-2-2 layout.
Upgrading KLM Seats from Economy to Premium Economy
There are a few ways you can upgrade to KLM's premium economy seats:
Pay for Seat Selection After Booking
Once you book an economy class ticket, you can pay to select and upgrade to premium economy seat through KLM's website and mobile app up until check-in opens (typically 24 hours before departure). This will incur a fee but is simple and guarantees you an upgraded seat.
Use Miles to Upgrade at Check-In
If premium economy award seats are available and you have enough Flying Blue miles, KLM allows economy passengers to use miles to upgrade at online check-in. The number of miles needed varies based on the flight. This method doesn't incur additional cash fees but availability is not guaranteed.
Bid for an Upgrade to Premium Economy
Buy an Upgrade at the Airport
You can visit a KLM service desk at the airport on the day of travel to pay a set upgrade fee in cash or miles and move to premium economy if seats are still unsold. This is subject to availability so there's no guarantee, but if successful, provides an easy last-minute upgrade.
Is Upgrading to KLM Premium Economy Worth It?
- Upgrading from standard economy to KLM's premium cabins gets you:
- At least 5 inches of extra legroom
- Wider seat with extendable footrest
- Premium meals and drinks
- Amenity kit with comfort items
- Additional checked baggage allowance
- Lounge access on some flights
- Priority services like check-in and boarding
For flights over 4 hours, the extra comfort and space in premium economy is often viewed as a worthwhile investment. You can better relax and arrive well-rested.
On shorter flights the value depends on the airline's premium economy configuration - the 2-2-2 layout on KLM's A330s can be preferable for couples but solo travelers may receive more value bidding for an exit row seat.
How Much Does KLM Premium Economy Cost to Upgrade?
The price to upgrade KLM economy seating to premium economy varies by route, travel dates and availability. As a guide, expect to pay:
- $200 - $800 for preferred seat selection after booking
- 10,000 - 30,000 Flying Blue miles for upgrades at check-in
- $100 - $500 bid upgrades during online check-in
for a one-way long haul flight. Prices are generally cheaper when booked well in advance.
KLM Premium Seat Tips
Follow these tips to have the best chance of securing a KLM premium economy seat upgrade:
✔️ Book early - more award and paid upgrade seats available
✔️ Bid for upgrades or use miles at online check-in
✔️ Be flexible with seating if bidding
✔️ Check upgrade options at airport if unsuccessful beforehand
✔️ Consider exit row seating for shorter flights
With excellent service, amenities, and a reasonable upgrade cost, flying in KLM's premium cabins can greatly elevate your journey.
