Significant improvements in frequent flyer programs have been rare recently. Therefore, it’s noteworthy that KLM & Air France have enhanced their status benefits. This applies specifically to additional baggage allowance.
Previously, each frequent flyer could check in 1 extra piece of luggage weighing up to 23 kg. Effective immediately, the baggage allowance for Flying Blue Platinum and Ultimate status members has been increased to 2 pieces of 23 kg each. However, this applies only to flights operated by Air France & KLM; for all other airlines, the allowance remains one additional piece of luggage.
Of particular note is that this benefit also applies to the cheapest Economy Light fare (regardless of long-haul or short-haul flights). This represents a valuable advantage over other airlines and alliances. For instance, Lufthansa no longer offers any free baggage for Economy Light fares on European flights, regardless of status.
Flying Blue has notified members via email about this change. The benefit has already been updated on their website:
Ultimate and Platinum members are entitled to 2 extra checked bags (max 23 Kg per piece) on flights marketed and operated by Air France or KLM.
Status benefits at Flying Blue
For SkyTeam (Elite) frequent flyers in other alliances, the rules remain unchanged. According to SkyTeam regulations, they still receive “only” one free checked bag.
Ultimate members enjoy two more new benefits: Holders of that tier can now make same day changes to an earlier or later flight on the same day without additional costs. However, it’s not possible to switch from a connection including a layover to a non-stop flight or vice versa. Even better, they can now use their four yearly upgrade vouchers for Air France or KLM flights on award tickets, instead of being bound to bookings paid in cash.
Translated by Ditmar
Cover Picture: Ditmar Lange