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How does KLM Airlines Assign Seats? Step-By-Step Guide

How does KLM Airlines Assign Seats? Step-By-Step Guide

By Flydreamz Oct, 08 2025

KLM is a Dutch airline which is distinct in the Netherlands and it also comes in the list of world's oldest operating airlines. You can witness a vast network of services if you fly with them with great customer service and sustainability. They are known for never compromising the reputation and if you are already excited to fly with them then here are the seat selection details.

What are the Methods of KLM Airlines seat selection?

  • There is a tiered system for seat selection with availability and fees dependent on the type of ticket you have purchased.
  • The easiest and most convenient way is to select and pay for your preferred seat when you initially book your flight on the website or app.
  • You can go for seat selection KLM after booking as there is always an option to login to my trip section on the website at any time before check-in to view the seat map, select and then pay for the seat.
  • An online check-in option is also available which usually opens 30 hours before the departure. At this point, you are able to select the standard seat for free depending on your ticket or pay to change the already assigned seat.
  • If you want to do it offline then you can try selecting a seat at the check-in counter or a self-service desk but the choice will be limited and the fee will be applicable. Make sure you select your preferred seat in advance to get rid of this chaotic option.

What are the Available KLM Seat Options and Fees?

  • There are various options in economy class each with the corresponding fee which can be different based on your route, length of your flight and the fare class.
  • The KLM seat selection cost for any of the seats are not given clearly on the website and when you will choose something according to you then they will let you know before allowing you to make the payment.
  • Standard seats are the regular economy class seats and they are often free if selected during the check-in for most ticket types.
  • If there are guests on the light tickets then they have to pay for advanced selection but will be assigned KLM free seat selection at check-in if they do not purchase in advance.
  • If you are a frequent flyer member and have silver, gold or platinum level membership then you can select the standard KLM flight seat selection free before check-in.
  • If you want to go for the extra comfortable options, choose the economy comfort that are located at the front of the economy cabin and offer more leg room and a greater recline. They are always available for KLM seat selection fees unless you are a higher-level Elite status member who gets a discount or free selection.
  • Seats with extra legroom are also available which are near emergency exits and they offer more space for an additional fee.
  • If you want to deplane earlier then front standard seats will be best for you which are the regular ones located in the first row of economy and they are also available for a KLM seat selection cost.
  • Seat in row 2 are also good options on certain intercontinental flights where you can reserve a row of just two seats offering more privacy for KLM Airlines seat assignment fees.
  • A separate class between economy and business with more space, recline and better amenities is available known as premium comfort class. Advance selection is generally included in the fare.
  • If you are going to buy the business class tickets then they offer full flat seats on intercontinental flights and seat selection is usually included in the fare.

What is the KLM Seat Assignment Policy?

  • If you are on a light ticket and choose not to purchase a seat in advance then the airline will automatically assign a seat to you during check-in. And, the airline will attempt to seat parties together but this is not guaranteed so you better go for the advance purchasing.
  • KLM will also assign seats for free at check-in to ensure that children up to 11 years old are seated next to an adult companion. If the suitable adjacent seat will not be available then they will be placed in the closest available seat.
  • The airline reserves all the rights to assign or reassign any seat at any time even after boarding for operational, safety and security reasons. If such a situation happens where you have paid for the seat then you will be entitled to get a refund.

FAQ's

On some flights, the airline offers this option which will allow you to purchase the adjacent seats during online check-in but it will be based on the availability.

As a light ticket holder, you have to pay to select a standard seat before check-in and if you wish to go with the random assignment then changing the assigned seat will incur a fee.

Yes, if you are a member then you can select the standard seat for free before check-in and if your level is higher than you can get a discount or free selection on extra comfortable seats.