KLM Announces New Service Concept for Intercontinental Flights

KLM has announced the launch of a new service concept for customers traveling in both World Business Class and Economy Class on intercontinental flights.

KLM is introducing new World Business Class Tableware Designed by Marcel Wanders - Courtesy KLM

On Tuesday (September 23, 2025), KLM Royal Dutch Airlines announced the introduction of a new service concept for both World Business Class and Economy Class on intercontinental flights, which will include more room for personal contact with passengers. At the same time, work on the cabin layout of the carrier’s intercontinental fleet is underway, which will result in an increase in the number of seats. With these changes, KLM is responding to passenger suggestions, while making optimal use of the cabin space.  These modifications will be rolled out from 2027.  In collaboration with the internationally renowned Dutch designer Marcel Wanders, KLM is also introducing new World Business Class tableware, along with new menu options. 

In Tuesday’s announcement, Marcel Wanders, said,

“As a designer of Dutch origin, I am proud to once again have the honour of designing tableware for KLM.  It is a contemporary design, made of beautiful crystal, bone china, stainless steel and other noble materials.  Of course, I am eager to know how the meals will look on the plates and what World Business Class passengers will think of it.”

Economy Class guests will also see a new service concept that aims to serve hot meals faster, along with more space for personal contact with passengers.  Additionally, the welcome drink is returning, which will allow for an additional moment of interaction. 

KLM is also changing the layout of their intercontinental Boeing fleet, and thanks to a new way of working and more efficient loading, fewer trolleys will be needed onboard.  This will allow the carrier to expand their popular Premium Comfort Class without compromising passenger legroom.  The number of seats will be expanded to a maximum of 40 seats, depending on aircraft type. The new layout will also allow KLM to add more Economy Class seats.  Additionally, on the airline's Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner fleet, two more seats will be added to World Business Class.

Also commenting on the service concept changes, KLM’s EVP – Inflight Services, Paul Terstegge, added,

“Our Premium Comfort Class is very well appreciated by passengers and is often fully booked. People want to travel, and the demand for unique and more luxury travel is increasing.  With the modifications we are going to make, we can expand the number of Premium Comfort seats.  In addition to making optimal use of the space on board, we are simultaneously investing in a more modern product with more room for personal contact. This is how we continue to fly, improve and innovate.”

Source: KLM Royal Dutch Airlines