Review: KLM Boeing 787-9 Business Class

Review: KLM Boeing 787-9 Business Class refers to a detailed evaluation of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines’ premium cabin offering aboard the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. This review klm boeing 787 9 business class aircraft is part of KLM’s long-haul fleet and features a 1-2-1 reverse-herringbone configuration in Business Class, promising both privacy and comfort. The review klm boeing 787 9 business class typically covers key aspects of the journey, including seat design, in-flight amenities, service quality, dining experience, entertainment options, and overall value—especially when redeemed through loyalty programs like Flying Blue.

Gliding through the skies on KLM’s Dreamliner isn’t just travel—it’s an experience stitched with Dutch charm and modern luxury. From porcelain KLM Delft Blue houses to multi-course gourmet meals at 35,000 feet, every moment is curated for discerning flyers. With panoramic windows, mood lighting, and personalized service, the cabin transforms into a tranquil escape above the clouds.

This review klm boeing 787 9 business class highlights exactly why this product continues to impress frequent travelers and aviation enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re booking with cash or miles, KLM’s transatlantic business class offers more than just a seat—it delivers a refined journey with seamless service, surprising comfort, and a touch of European elegance from gate to gate.

Complete Flight Experience from Amsterdam to Austin

Flying KLM’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in Business Class offers a solid premium experience, though it falls short of cutting-edge expectations. After experiencing the reverse-herringbone 1-2-1 configuration on the Amsterdam to Austin route, here’s everything you need to know about this product that serves as KLM’s long-haul workhorse.

Pre-Flight Experience: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

Booking Process & Route Selection

KLM’s Boeing 787-9 operates on key long-haul routes from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. The Austin route proves particularly attractive for award bookings through Flying Blue, KLM’s loyalty program. Award availability remains strong compared to competitors, making this route accessible for points redemptions.

The airline offers competitive pricing on this route, especially when booked 3-4 months in advance. Business Class fares typically range from $2,800-$4,200 depending on seasonality, while award redemptions require 62,500-87,500 Flying Blue miles plus taxes.

Booking Window	Cash Price Range	Flying Blue Miles	Best Value Period
6+ months ahead	$2,800-$3,200	62,500-75,000	Off-peak shoulder season
3-4 months ahead	$3,200-$3,800	75,000-87,500	Year-round availability
1-2 months ahead	$3,800-$4,200	87,500+	Limited award space
Last minute	$4,200+	Rarely available	Peak season premiums

Elite status benefits through SkyTeam partnerships enhance value proposition. Gold and Platinum members receive complimentary upgrades when available, priority waitlisting, and enhanced baggage allowances that offset premium cabin costs.

See Also: United Polaris Newark to Zurich Review on Boeing 767-300ER

Airport Experience & Crown Lounge Access

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport provides multiple lounge options for Business Class passengers. Crown Lounge 52 and Crown Lounge 25 serve as primary facilities, though capacity issues during peak European departure times create overcrowding between 10 AM-2 PM daily.

Crown Lounge 52 features:

• 200+ seating capacity across multiple zones
• Full-service bar with premium spirits including Jenever
• Hot meal options including Dutch specialties and international cuisine
• Shower facilities (8 available, advance booking recommended)
• Business center with printing, scanning, and video call facilities
• Terrace seating overlooking aircraft operations

The SkyPriority check-in process moves efficiently, with dedicated counters reducing wait times to under 10 minutes during standard operations. Staff proficiency in Dutch, English, German, and French enhances the experience for international travelers. Document verification occurs seamlessly, though US passport holders should allow extra time for ESTA confirmation.

Crown Lounge 25 offers quieter atmosphere with:

• Smaller capacity (120 seats) reducing crowding
• Premium coffee service with Dutch roasted beans
• Dedicated quiet zones for work and rest
• Enhanced Wi-Fi speeds reaching 25+ Mbps
• Personalized concierge services for complex itineraries

Boarding & First Impressions

Priority Boarding Process

SkyPriority boarding begins 30 minutes before general boarding through Gate F6. The dual jet-bridge boarding system on the Boeing 787-9 allows simultaneous front and rear cabin access, reducing boarding time from typical 45 minutes to 25 minutes for all passengers.

Portal windows on jet bridge provide aircraft viewing opportunities, showcasing the distinctive Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner profile. Aircraft PH-BHI (“Lavender”) represents KLM’s newest generation with improved fuel efficiency and passenger comfort features.

Crew greeting remains professional but lacks the warmth found on premium Asian carriers. Flight attendants conduct brief introductions and amenity distribution efficiently, though personal touches feel scripted rather than genuine.

Cabin Layout & Design Philosophy

The Business Class cabin spans 8 rows with 30 seats total in the signature reverse-herringbone 1-2-1 configuration. This layout ensures every passenger enjoys direct aisle access while maintaining reasonable privacy levels through angled positioning.

Cabin Zone	Rows	Seat Count	Privacy Level	Noise Level
Front section	1-4	15 seats	High (galley buffer)	Low
Mid section	5-6	8 seats	Medium	Medium
Rear section	7-8	7 seats	High (lavatory distance)	Low-Medium

The cabin feels spacious thanks to the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner’s larger windows (30% bigger than traditional aircraft) and higher ceiling reaching 8’2″ at peak. However, the overall aesthetic appears dated compared to newer business class products from Delta, Virgin Atlantic, or newer European carriers.

Dutch design elements include subtle orange accents, tulip-inspired lighting fixtures, and cultural artwork celebrating Netherlands heritage. These touches add character without overwhelming the professional atmosphere required for business travel.

The Business Class Seat Deep Dive

Seat Specifications & Comfort Analysis

Specification	Measurement	Industry Comparison	Comfort Rating
Seat Width	22 inches	Above average	8/10
Seat Pitch	60 inches	Standard	7/10
Bed Length	79 inches	Good for most passengers	8/10
Footwell Width	18 inches	Adequate	6/10
Storage Compartment	12L capacity	Below average	5/10
Recline Angle	180 degrees	Full flat	9/10

The reverse-herringbone 1-2-1 configuration provides excellent privacy, particularly for window seats where passengers face away from aisles. However, footwell space feels cramped for passengers over 6’2″, with limited width causing discomfort during extended lying periods.

Storage compartment design reflects older thinking about passenger needs. Modern travelers require space for laptops, tablets, phones, headphones, and travel documents simultaneously. KLM’s compartments force prioritization choices that shouldn’t exist in premium cabins.

Seat construction utilizes high-quality materials with leather upholstery showing minimal wear despite heavy usage. Cushioning provides adequate support for sitting, though mattress padding feels thin when converted to bed configuration.

Technology Integration & Connectivity

The IFE screen measures 17 inches with responsive touchscreen capability responding within 0.5 seconds to inputs. A backup remote provides traditional navigation, particularly useful during turbulence when touchscreen accuracy diminishes. The moving map feature offers detailed flight progress with landmark identification including geographical features, major cities, and points of interest.

Wi-Fi costs €18 for the full-flight pass, though intermittent connectivity issues plague the system throughout cruise portions. Speed tests averaged 2-3 Mbps during optimal conditions but frequently dropped below 1 Mbps or disconnected entirely over oceanic regions.

Connectivity Feature	Performance	Reliability	Value Rating
Wi-Fi Speed	2-3 Mbps average	60% uptime	Poor
Email/Messaging	Adequate	80% success rate	Fair
Video Streaming	Inconsistent	30% success rate	Poor
Web Browsing	Slow but functional	70% success rate	Fair

Power outlets include both AC (110V US standard) and USB-A ports positioned conveniently near seat controls. USB-C remains absent, forcing passengers to bring adapters for newer devices. The reading light provides adequate illumination with adjustable intensity, while the air nozzle offers personalized climate control essential during varying cabin temperatures.

Privacy & Accessibility Features

Window seats (A and K positions) provide superior privacy through the angled configuration directing passengers away from aisle traffic. Tray table functionality suffers from persistent sliding issues, requiring frequent readjustment during meal service, work sessions, and entertainment consumption.

The tray measures 16×12 inches when fully extended, sufficient for laptop use but challenging for simultaneous meal service and device usage. Surface texture provides adequate grip for most items, though liquids require careful attention due to slight warping in older aircraft.

Aisle access remains unobstructed in all seats, a significant advantage over older 2-2-2 configurations that trapped window passengers. However, foot traffic creates disturbance for aisle seat passengers during active service periods, bathroom rushes, and crew operations.

Culinary Experience Breakdown

Pre-Departure Service

Service begins promptly after settling with hot towels arriving within 5 minutes of boarding completion. Pre-departure beverages include champagne (Lanson Black Label), still/sparkling water, orange juice, and notably, Heineken beer – a unique touch reflecting Dutch heritage that sets KLM apart from competitors offering only wine and champagne pre-flight.

Warm nuts ramekin arrives 15 minutes after takeoff, featuring a carefully curated mix of cashews, almonds, macadamias, and hazelnuts. Temperature reaches optimal warmth without burning, while seasoning balances salt levels perfectly. Portion size appears modest compared to competitors but quality exceeds expectations.

See Also: Review: American Airlines Flagship Lounge Dallas (DFW) amenities

Main Meal Service Execution

The multi-course service begins approximately 35 minutes post-takeoff, allowing sufficient altitude and stability for proper food preparation and presentation. Appetizers arrive first with tomato soup featuring rich, concentrated flavor achieved through slow-cooking techniques. Texture remains smooth without grittiness, while temperature stays appropriately hot throughout consumption.

Smoked salmon rouleaux provides an elegant alternative featuring Norwegian salmon cured with dill, paired with cream cheese mousse and capers. Presentation demonstrates professional plating with garnish attention that elevates the airline dining experience beyond typical expectations.

Course	Options Available	Preparation Quality	Presentation	Taste Rating
Appetizers	3 choices	Excellent	Professional	8.5/10
Main	3 choices + vegetarian	Very Good	Above Average	8/10
Dessert	2 choices + cheese	Good	Standard	7.5/10

Main course highlights include Beef Jawa, an Indonesian-inspired dish reflecting KLM’s colonial heritage and cultural connections. The beef demonstrates proper tenderness achieved through slow-braising techniques, while accompanying sambal adds authentic heat levels that complement rather than overpower the protein. Rice preparation shows attention to texture and flavor absorption.

Vegetarian options receive equal attention with seasonal ingredient focus, often featuring Dutch produce when available. Presentation maintains consistency with meat selections, avoiding the afterthought treatment common among airlines.

Dessert service features a tasting of delicacies including chocolate mousse prepared with Belgian chocolate, seasonal fruit tart showcasing European techniques, and traditional Dutch cheese selections. The cheese plate showcases aged Gouda (18+ months) and Edam varieties with appropriate accompaniments including fig jam, walnuts, and crackers.

Mid-Flight Dining Options

The snack basket remains available throughout the flight, restocked every 4 hours during long-haul operations. Contents include:

• Fresh sandwiches (turkey with Dutch cheese, vegetarian with seasonal vegetables)
• Traditional Dutch cookies including stroopwafels and speculoos
• International snack options (chips, crackers, nuts)
• Premium ice cream selections from local Dutch suppliers
• Comprehensive beverage selection including bottled water and soft drinks

Chocolate houses arrive in dark, milk, and white chocolate varieties, continuing KLM’s beloved tradition of collectible miniature KLM houses for premium passengers. These architectural replicas of famous Amsterdam buildings serve as memorable keepsakes while providing quality chocolate satisfaction.

Pre-Arrival Meal Quality

The pre-arrival meal service begins approximately 2 hours before landing, timed to avoid descent preparations while ensuring passenger satisfaction. Options vary by arrival time, featuring continental breakfast items for morning arrivals and light lunch selections for afternoon landings.

Quality remains consistent with main meal service standards, though portion sizes decrease appropriately for the shorter service window. Hot items maintain proper temperature, while cold selections show fresh preparation without extended storage effects.

Service timing allows adequate rest between meals, though the overall 2-hour main service duration feels extended compared to competitors completing service within 90 minutes. This extended timeline affects sleep opportunities on overnight flights.

In-Flight Service & Entertainment

Crew Performance Evaluation

KLM crew members demonstrate professional competency with impressive multilingual capabilities spanning Dutch, English, German, French, and often Spanish or Italian. Training standards emphasize safety and efficiency over personalized service, creating competent but sometimes impersonal interactions.

Slow service flow creates noticeable delays during peak meal periods, with complete service requiring 2+ hours versus industry-leading carriers completing service in 75-90 minutes. Tray cleared late after meal completion extends service disruption and limits passenger rest opportunities.

Service Aspect	KLM Rating	Industry Leader	Areas for Improvement
Professionalism	8/10	9/10	Warmth and personalization
Efficiency	6/10	8/10	Service timing and flow
Problem Resolution	7/10	9/10	Proactive anticipation
Language Skills	9/10	8/10	Maintain current standards

Proactive service occurs less frequently than on premium Asian carriers like Singapore Airlines or Cathay Pacific. Crew members respond adequately to passenger requests but rarely anticipate needs or offer suggestions that enhance the travel experience.

Entertainment System Deep Dive

The IFE screen offers extensive content library including:

• 150+ movies featuring recent Hollywood releases, European cinema, and Dutch productions
• 200+ TV episodes across genres including documentaries, comedy, drama, and children’s programming
• Music library containing 1,000+ albums spanning classical, jazz, pop, and world music
• Interactive games and lifestyle content including travel guides and language learning
• Live news feeds from BBC, CNN, and Dutch broadcaster NOS
• Sports programming including highlights and live events when available

Content refresh occurs monthly with new releases added regularly. However, selection lacks depth compared to Emirates or Qatar Airways, particularly in international and independent film categories.

Headphones provided are basic over-ear models with adequate comfort for short-term use but insufficient padding for extended entertainment sessions. Audio quality suffices for movie dialogue and music consumption but lacks bass response and clarity expected in premium cabins. Passengers significantly benefit from bringing personal headphones.

Comfort Amenities & Sleep Quality

Sleep comfort receives mixed evaluation depending on passenger height and sleep preferences. The pillow provides adequate support with memory foam filling that maintains shape throughout flight duration. The blanket and duvet combination offers appropriate warmth for varying cabin temperatures, though material quality feels institutional rather than luxurious.

Mattress padding feels noticeably thin compared to newer business class products, creating pressure points for side sleepers and reducing overall comfort during extended rest periods. The 79-inch bed length accommodates most passengers, though individuals over 6’4″ may experience foot crowding in the footwell.

See Also: Review: American Airlines Flagship Lounge Dallas (DFW) amenities

The amenity kit arrives in a canvas pouch suitable for post-flight reuse, containing:

• Eye mask with basic elastic strap (adequate light blocking)
• Toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste (standard airline quality)
• Compression socks in medium size (one-size-fits-most approach)
• Foam earplugs providing moderate noise reduction
• Lip balm and facial moisturizer (small sizes, basic formulation)
• KLM-branded pen (functional writing instrument)

Rituals-branded toiletries in lavatories significantly elevate the experience beyond basic airline standards. Lavatory decor features distinctive Dutch-house wallpaper and decorative vase elements, adding cultural touches that reinforce brand identity while creating more pleasant facilities.

Operational Performance

Flight Punctuality & Communication

Departure from Kaagbaan runway occurred precisely on schedule despite Amsterdam’s notorious weather-related delays affecting 15-20% of daily operations. Actual vs scheduled times demonstrated operational excellence:

Flight Phase	Scheduled	Actual	Variance
Pushback	10:25 AM	10:25 AM	On time
Departure	10:45 AM	10:40 AM	5 minutes early
Cruise	8h 45m planned	8h 30m actual	15 minutes saved
Arrival	2:30 PM local	2:15 PM local	15 minutes early

Captain announcements provided comprehensive information about route progress, weather conditions, and expected arrival times. Professional delivery included overfly landmarks identification such as viewing opportunities for Northern Lights over northern Canada, passing major cities including Omaha, Ontario, significant facilities like Tesla Gigafactory near Austin, and sporting venues including Circuit of the Americas.

Ground Service Integration

Baggage handling at both Amsterdam (AMS) and Austin demonstrated efficiency with priority tagging ensuring Business Class luggage appeared within first 15 minutes of carousel operation. Special meal requests received proper kitchen coordination, and crew communication for connecting passengers operated smoothly.

The Amsterdam (AMS) → Austin (AUS) route timing facilitates convenient connections from European cities, though early morning departures (typical 10:00-11:00 AM) challenge passengers with tight connection windows from late-arriving European flights.

Value Assessment & Competitive Analysis

Cost-Benefit Evaluation

At current pricing levels, KLM’s Boeing 787-9 Business Class provides reasonable value for transatlantic travel, particularly when considering total journey time and connection convenience. However, the familiar product feels increasingly dated compared to newer competitor offerings.

Flying Blue award availability remains a significant competitive advantage, with better redemption opportunities than many SkyTeam partners including Delta, Air France, or Korean Air on similar routes. Miles requirements stay reasonable relative to route distance and service level provided.

Value Factor	KLM Score	Competitor Average	Advantage/Disadvantage
Award Availability	8/10	6/10	Strong advantage
Hard Product	6/10	7/10	Moderate disadvantage
Route Network	9/10	7/10	Significant advantage
Service Quality	7/10	8/10	Slight disadvantage
Overall Value	7.5/10	7/10	Slight advantage

Industry Benchmarking

Compared to newer 787-10’s and refreshed 777’s with door-equipped seats from competitors, this product shows clear age and design limitations. Airlines including Delta’s newest suites, Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class, and Lufthansa’s Allegris Business offer superior hard products on similar transatlantic routes.

However, KLM’s convenient one-stop connections provide routing advantages that direct competitors cannot match. This connectivity proves invaluable for passengers originating from secondary European markets including Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, and smaller Western European cities.

Strengths That Stand Out

KLM’s Boeing 787-9 Business Class excels in several key areas:

• Exceptional award availability through Flying Blue program
• Unmatched route connectivity via Amsterdam hub operations
• Cultural touches enhancing brand identity and passenger experience
• Reliable operational performance with strong on-time statistics
• Adequate comfort levels for overnight transatlantic flights

Areas Needing Improvement

Critical weaknesses requiring immediate attention include:

• Seat issues including persistent tray table sliding problems
• Intermittent connectivity severely limiting business productivity
• Dated cabin design lacking modern amenities and technological integration
• Slow service flow extending meal periods beyond reasonable timeframes
• Limited storage solutions inadequate for modern travel needs

Recommendation Matrix

This product ideally suits:

• Flying Blue members seeking optimal award redemption value
• Passengers requiring Amsterdam hub connections to secondary markets
• Travelers prioritizing operational reliability over cutting-edge luxury
• Budget-conscious business travelers accepting compromise for savings
• Cultural enthusiasts appreciating Dutch heritage integration

Consider competitive alternatives when:

• Seeking industry-leading business class innovation and technology
• Requiring consistent high-speed internet for business productivity
• Preferring proactive, personalized service approaches
• Flying direct routes where superior competitors operate
• Prioritizing sleep quality and comfort over convenience factors

See Also: CLT Airport Amex Lounge: What to Expect

KLM’s Boeing 787-9 Business Class delivers a competent, reliable premium experience that satisfies fundamental business travel requirements while falling short of inspiring excellence. The product succeeds through strategic advantages in route network and award availability rather than superior hard product or service innovation, making it a pragmatic choice for informed travelers who prioritize value and connectivity over luxury amenities.

FAQs

1. What is the current seat configuration on the 787‑9?

KLM’s Boeing 787‑9 features a reverse‑herringbone 1‑2‑1 layout in Business Class, ensuring direct aisle access for every seat.

2. Is Wi‑Fi available onboard and how much does it cost?

Yes, Wi‑Fi is available. Messaging is free, while browsing or streaming passes can be purchased via the KLM portal or onboard—prices depend on flight length.

3. How is award availability using Flying Blue miles?

Award redemptions are currently limited. Saver-level business class seats across the Atlantic are scarce, with only a few routes and weeks offering availability.

4. What onboard comfort features are offered?

The cabin includes full-size pillows, duvets, amenity kits (eye mask, socks, toiletries), and soft bedding in the footwell.

5. How do passengers rate the 787‑9 Business Class overall?

Reviews praise the comfort and privacy of the seats, though a few mention issues like tray tables sliding and noticing movement from neighboring seats.

Conclusion

In this review-klm-boeing-787-9-business-class, the experience stands out for its comfort, design, and thoughtful service. The seats are spacious with great privacy, and the food feels like fine dining in the sky. The small details—like the amenity kit, soft bedding, and KLM’s signature Dutch houses—make the flight feel special. Staff are friendly and professional, adding a warm touch to the journey.

Overall, the review-klm-boeing-787-9-business-class shows why KLM remains a top choice for long flights. The Boeing 787-9 is modern, quiet, and smooth. From boarding to landing, everything feels well-planned and relaxed. Whether flying for work or leisure, this business class offers great value, especially when booked with Flying Blue miles. It’s a calm and classy way to cross the Atlantic.