KLM introduces new European product

Effective June 1, 2003, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines will renew its ground and in-flight product on European routes, allowing customers a choice of three service concepts and associated fares: Base Fares, Economy Fares and Select Fares. 

Booking options vary from limited to flexible, and service on board and on the ground varies from simple to full service. Furthermore,  KLM's existing European Business Class will be replaced by the so-called "KLM Europe Select" service and the current Economy Class will be re-branded "KLM Economy". By offering a transparent fare structure and a straightforward product, KLM hopes to meet changing customer requirements and demands.

With the new product KLM said it expects to transport 10% more passengers within Europe, strengthen its European market position, and reduce unit costs. Moreover, this product renewal fits in KLM's aim to achieve structural yield improvement. The new concept will be implemented on all European  routes, except on routes operated by KLM cityhopper and KLM exel.

Select Fares

Passengers who choose a Select Fare, profit from flexible booking conditions and an extensive range of "KLM Europe Select" services on board and on the ground.

Select Fare passengers will be offered comfortable and efficient ground handling procedures. They will have access to separate check-in desks, as well as special fast-lane service during boarding. They will have free access to KLM lounges and a range of additional services, including fast-lane service at passport control and valet parking at the departure hall (at a cost, but with a 10% discount on regular fees charged at Schiphol Airport). These and other facilities will be available at KLM's home base, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. KLM said it will strive to introduce a similar level of service at other European airports, wherever possible.

The in-flight service offered in KLM Europe Select will be almost identical to that currently offered in Business Class, including a wide range of beverages, meals and other facilities. The seats will, however, be slightly narrower, with rows of six abreast instead of five, but the legroom will stay the same (33 inches). As of June 1, KLM will begin introducing this new seat configuration aboard its Boeing 737-300s and 400s.

Depending on local market conditions, KLM will reduce its current Business Class fares. For the Dutch market this implies a reduction of between five and 13 percent on average. The new seat configuration, which will allow KLM to carry more passengers in KLM Europe Select, will offset the effects of lower fares.

Economy Fares and Base Fares

Passengers who require fewer booking options and less service, can opt for an Economy Fare or Base Fare with "KLM Economy" service on board and on the ground. KLM will offer a limited number of seats at discount prices. Passengers must book and pay Base Fares at least 14 days in advance and will not have the option of canceling or rebooking their flight. The Economy Fares are slightly more expensive, but offer more flexible conditions. Flights may be canceled or rebooked at a cost.

KLM will serve coffee, tea or soft drinks on board, as well as a sandwich or meal box (depending on the duration of the flight). Passengers in KLM Economy will no longer be served alcoholic beverages, nor will they be offered a choice of newspapers.