You’re standing at Schiphol, clutching a boarding pass, wondering if that massive pile of Flying Blue miles or the hefty credit card charge was actually a good idea. We’ve all been there. Choosing the right long-haul product feels like a gamble because, honestly, airline marketing makes everything look like a five-set Michelin meal in the clouds. But the KLM 787 9 business class experience—specifically the World Business Class on the Dreamliner—is a bit of a cult favorite for a reason. It’s not just about the Delft Blue houses, though those are definitely the best part of the whole ordeal.
It’s the seat.
When KLM transitioned to the Boeing 787-9, they finally ditched those awkward 2-2-2 layouts where you had to hop over a stranger’s legs just to use the bathroom. They went with the Zodiac Cirrus seat. It’s a reverse-herringbone configuration. Basically, everyone gets direct aisle access. No more "excuse me" gymnastics at 3 AM over the North Atlantic.
The seat everyone keeps talking about
Let’s get into the weeds of the cabin. The 787-9 Dreamliner has 30 seats in World Business Class. They are arranged in a 1-2-1 layout. If you’re flying solo, grab a window seat (A or K). They face away from the aisle, giving you this cozy little cocoon feeling. If you’re traveling with a partner, the middle seats (D and G) are fine, but there isn't a "honeymoon" style double bed here. You’ll still have a bit of a divider between you.
The seat itself is 20 inches wide. That sounds okay on paper, but if you’re broad-shouldered, it can feel a little snug when you’re trying to sleep. However, it folds out into a fully flat bed that’s about 80 inches long. I’m fairly tall, and I didn't feel like my toes were cramped against the footwell, which is a common complaint on older aircraft or tighter configurations like the 787-10 "Vantage XL" seats.
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One thing you’ll notice immediately is the storage. There’s a side locker that’s perfect for noise-canceling headphones or a bottle of water. It has a mirror inside, which is kinda handy for checking if you look like a zombie before landing. The 16-inch screen is sharp, though the entertainment system (Studio KLM) can be a bit glitchy if you’re trying to scroll too fast.
Lighting, Air, and the Dreamliner Advantage
The 787-9 isn't just about the seat; it’s about the plane itself. Because the Dreamliner is made of carbon fiber, Boeing can pump more moisture into the air. Usually, plane air is drier than the Sahara. On this jet, you don't wake up feeling like your eyeballs are glued shut. Plus, the cabin is pressurized at a lower altitude (about 6,000 feet instead of 8,000). You’ll actually feel less jet-lagged. It’s science.
The windows are huge. There are no plastic shades; you just press a button and they tint blue. It’s cool for the first five minutes, but honestly, even at the darkest setting, a tiny bit of light still bleeds through during a bright day flight. Bring an eye mask if you’re a light sleeper.
The Food: Is it actually edible?
KLM works with Dutch celebrity chefs like Jonnie Boer of the three-Michelin-starred De Librije. Usually, that means the food is better than your average airline chicken-or-pasta situation.
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- Appetizers: You usually get a choice of two. Look for the smoked salmon or a hearty soup.
- Main Course: They do a great braised beef. Avoid the pasta if you can—reheated pasta in the sky is rarely a win.
- The Cheese: It's a Dutch airline. The cheese board is mandatory. Don't skip it.
The service is where KLM usually shines or wobbles depending on the crew. Most of the time, the Dutch crews are incredibly direct but very warm. They don't do the subservient thing you see on some Middle Eastern or Asian carriers. They treat you like a guest in their home. It’s refreshing.
Let’s talk about the Delft Blue Houses
If you fly KLM 787 9 business class, you get a gift at the end. These are miniature gin-filled houses modeled after real buildings in the Netherlands. They’ve been doing this since the 1950s. Every year on KLM’s anniversary (October 7th), they release a new house. People literally track these things on apps to make sure they don't get a duplicate. It’s a weirdly addictive hobby. If you’re flying on your birthday or an anniversary, tell the crew. Sometimes they’ll let you pick from a "special" stash.
The Schiphol Lounge Experience
If you’re departing from Amsterdam, you’ll be in the KLM Crown Lounge 52. It’s massive. It has two floors, a terrace, and even a high-end restaurant called Blue (though you have to pay extra for the food there). The "standard" buffet food in the lounge is... fine. It's a lot of bread, cheese, and cold cuts. The best part of the lounge is the shower suites. If you’ve just come off a connecting flight, a shower in Lounge 52 is a game-changer.
What most people get wrong about this flight
A common misconception is that the 787-9 and the 787-10 are identical in Business Class. They aren't. While the 787-10 has a newer seat (the Jamco Venture), many frequent flyers actually prefer the 787-9’s Zodiac seats because they feel slightly more private around the head area.
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Another thing: don't expect a "first class" experience. This is a solid, upper-tier business class. It isn't Qatar QSuites. There are no sliding doors. You will see other people. But for a transatlantic hop or a trip down to South America, it is arguably one of the most consistent ways to fly.
Technical Nuances You Might Notice
The 787-9 uses GEnx engines. They are significantly quieter than the engines on an older 777. If you’re sensitive to noise, sit as far forward as possible. Row 1 or 2 is the sweet spot.
Pro Tip: Avoid Row 8. It’s right in front of the galley and the lavatories. You’ll hear the clinking of silverware and the constant flushing all night long.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Trip
If you're looking to book or have already secured a seat, here is how you maximize the value of your ticket:
- Download the KLM App Early: You can select your seat for free as soon as you book in Business Class. Aim for the "A" or "K" seats for maximum privacy.
- Check the House App: Download the "KLM Houses" app. It allows you to keep track of your collection so you don't accidentally pick up a duplicate of House No. 47 when House No. 104 is sitting right there.
- Use the Bid-to-Upgrade: If you’re booked in Economy or Premium Comfort, KLM often sends out "bid for upgrade" emails 48 hours before the flight. On the 787-9, an upgrade is often worth it if the price is under $600 for a long-haul leg.
- Special Meals: If you have dietary restrictions, order 24 hours in advance. The VGML (Vegan) meal on KLM is surprisingly decent, often featuring flavorful curries.
- Lounge Timing: If you’re in Amsterdam, arrive at least three hours early. The non-Schengen Crown Lounge is an experience in itself, but it can get crowded between 9 AM and noon.
The KLM 787 9 business class remains a stalwart of the skies. It’s a stylish, functional, and quintessentially Dutch way to travel. You get a flat bed, a bit of gin in a porcelain house, and you land feeling like a human being instead of a dried-out raisin. That’s a win in any frequent flyer’s book.