KLM vs Lufthansa

Side-by-side comparison of KLM and Lufthansa: cabin and checked baggage allowances, fees, online check-in deadlines, alliances, hubs and contacts.

KLMLufthansa
Country NetherlandsGermany
Founded 19191953
Type Full-service airlineFull-service airline
Alliance SkyTeamStar Alliance
Main hubs Amsterdam Airport SchipholMunich Airport, Frankfurt Airport
Aircraft types 510
Cabin bag weight 12 kg (26 lb)8 kg (18 lb)
Cabin bag size 55 × 35 × 25 cm (22 × 14 × 10 in)55 × 40 × 23 cm (22 × 16 × 9 in)
Checked bag (Economy) not included · 23 kg (51 lb)not included
First checked bag fee from 25 EUR (≈ 29 USD)-
Extra bag fee from 25 EUR (≈ 29 USD)from 90 USD
Online check-in opens 30 h30 h
Online check-in closes 1 h40 min
Airport check-in fee freefree
Customer service phone +31 20 474 7747-

Key differences

  • KLM allows a heavier cabin bag: 12 kg (26 lb) vs 8 kg (18 lb) at Lufthansa.
  • Lufthansa lets you check in online closer to departure (40 min vs 1 h).
  • KLM is a SkyTeam member, so miles and status benefits carry over to partner airlines.
  • Lufthansa is a Star Alliance member, so miles and status benefits carry over to partner airlines.

Other comparisons

Allowances shown are for the basic Economy fare on most routes. Fees are the lowest published prices and change often - confirm on the official websites before booking.