KLM is testing a new fare on nine European destinations: the ‘Basic Fare’. It is the new entry level fare and therefor normally spoken the cheapest of the fares. Bigger hand luggage has to be paid for however, and no Flyting Blue XP point are gained on the Light fare, only miles. XP are only gained starting with the Basic fare.
A KLM-spokesperson explained Summit Benelux the new fare:
‘To continue increasing our attractiveness on the European network amid increasing competition, KLM is piloting a new fare: the “Basic” fare. This fare is offered in addition to the existing “Light,” “Standard,” and “Flex” fares. Ideal for passengers traveling light for short stays, this fare offers an affordable fare with minimal baggage, making the journey through the airport and on board smoother. Passengers choosing this fare have the option of bringing essential items into the cabin (a small bag, such as a laptop bag or a small backpack) that fits under the seat in front of them. The maximum permitted dimensions for this bag are 40x30x15 cm.’
Feedback
As written, to quite some critical feedback in The Netherlands, KLM hereby starts with paying for larger cabin luggage during this test. ‘If needed, customers can add hand luggage up to four hours before departure for an additional fee, starting at €15 per one-way flight. Flying Blue Elite customers will continue to be able to bring one free piece of hand luggage, regardless of the fare they book. Nowadays, passengers often bring more baggage on board, leaving staff with limited space in overhead bins. This results in baggage being moved to the hold at the last minute, which can lead to uncertainty, delays, and discussions. With this pilot, KLM aims to investigate whether carrying less baggage on board contributes positively to a better travel experience.’
This fare will be tested on nine European routes. Sales has started earlier in July and will be valid for flights in September.
In a nutshell:
The nine cities: Helsinki, Tunis, Vienna, Dublin, Munchen, Turin, Prague, Stockholm, Florence.
Basic ticket
- Cabin baggage allowance: 1 x small bag. Hand baggage is not included, but can be added for a fee.
- Checked baggage: not included, but can be added for a fee.
- You cannot change your flight.
- Your ticket is non-refundable.
- Free drinks, snacks and meals are included.
Light ticket
- Cabin baggage allowance: 1 x small bag and 1 x hand baggage (max. 12 kg in total).
- Checked baggage: not included, but can be added for a fee.
- You cannot change your flight.
- Your ticket is non-refundable.
- Free drinks, snacks and meals are included.
Standard ticket
- Cabin baggage allowance: 1 x small bag and 1 x hand baggage (max. 12 kg in total).
- Checked baggage: 1 piece (max. 23 kg). Extra checked baggage can be added for a fee.
- You can change your flight for EUR 70 plus a possible fare difference.
- Your ticket is non-refundable.
- Free drinks, snacks and meals are included.
Flex ticket
- Cabin baggage allowance: 1 x small bag and 1 x hand baggage (max. 12 kg in total).
- Checked baggage: 1 piece (max. 23 kg). Extra checked baggage can be added for a fee.
- You can choose a standard seat before check-in opens.
- You can change your flight without paying a change fee, but you’ll need to pay a possible fare difference.
- If there’s availability, you can take an earlier or later flight without paying a change fee.
- You can cancel your flight and get a refund without paying a cancellation fee.
- SkyPriority is included.
- Free drinks, snacks and meals are included.
