KLM vs Ryanair

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

KLMRyanair
Country NetherlandsIreland
Founded 19191985
Type Full-service airlineLow-cost carrier
Alliance SkyTeam-
Main hubs Amsterdam Airport SchipholLondon Stansted Airport
Aircraft types 52
Cabin bag weight 12 kg (26 lb)10 kg (22 lb)
Cabin bag size 55 × 35 × 25 cm (22 × 14 × 10 in)55 × 40 × 20 cm (22 × 16 × 8 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)-
Online check-in opens 30 h24 h
Online check-in closes 1 h2 h
Airport check-in fee freefree
Customer service phone +31 20 474 7747+353 1 691 7177

Key differences

  • KLM allows a heavier cabin bag: 12 kg (26 lb) vs 10 kg (22 lb) at Ryanair.
  • KLM opens online check-in earlier (30 h before departure vs 24 h).
  • KLM lets you check in online closer to departure (1 h vs 2 h).
  • Ryanair is a low-cost carrier: expect a cheaper base fare with bags, seats and airport check-in sold separately, while KLM bundles more into the ticket.
  • KLM is a SkyTeam 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.