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.
| KLM | Lufthansa | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Netherlands | Germany |
| Founded | 1919 | 1953 |
| Type | Full-service airline | Full-service airline |
| Alliance | SkyTeam | Star Alliance |
| Main hubs | Amsterdam Airport Schiphol | Munich Airport, Frankfurt Airport |
| Aircraft types | 5 | 10 |
| 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 h | 30 h |
| Online check-in closes | 1 h | 40 min |
| Airport check-in fee | free | free |
| 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.

