KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Jakarta - Kuala Lumpur
Business Class Flight Report
May 2016
Posted by AO/あお
About this flight
Although the flight time is short, the KLM Royal Dutch Airlines routes between Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta, and between Singapore and Jakarta, are a delight for aviation enthusiasts. These segments offer the same top-tier business class products and services found on long-haul routes.
While these routes were suspended in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is hope for their swift return. (Note: KLM does not offer a First Class cabin.)
This is a flight review of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Business Class from Jakarta (Indonesia) to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia).
In May 2016, Jakarta’s Soekarno–Hatta International Airport was still constructing the new, modern Terminal 3. At that time, departures were from the more traditional Terminal 2, which featured striking ethnic design elements — rows of vermilion triangular roofs, circular red columns, and an interior rich in heritage-style architecture. I've documented many photos of this terminal, which is no longer in use today.
The in-flight service in KLM’s Business Class was also very comfortable.
Table of Contents
Jakarta Airport
Top
Terminal 2 (1)
This is Terminal 2 of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta. The red pillars and rafters supporting the roof reflect a traditional, ethnic architectural style.
Back in 2016, before the renovation of Terminal 3, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines was using the character-rich Terminal 2.
Nowadays, many airlines including KLM, Garuda Indonesia, JAL, and ANA have moved to the newly designed and modern Terminal 3.
Terminal 2 (2)
Another view of Terminal 2. The gabled, triangular red roofs give off a traditional, cultural atmosphere.
Terminal 2 (3)
Yet another angle of Terminal 2. The series of red triangular gabled roofs make a strong impression.
KLM Check-in
This is the KLM Royal Dutch Airlines check-in counter.
Flight Information Board
Flight information board for KLM.
- • Jakarta → Kuala Lumpur: 2 hours 10 minutes
- • Jakarta → Amsterdam: 16 hours 15 minutes
- • Departure from Jakarta: 18:45
- • Arrival in Kuala Lumpur: 21:55
Boarding Pass
This is the boarding pass. A handwritten note indicates access to the Garuda Indonesia lounge.
Inside the Terminal
Post-immigration area of the terminal. The white ceiling is supported by red rafters and round pillars — it has a charming and nostalgic feel.
Full View of the Airport
A poster from the airport operator showing a layout of Soekarno-Hatta Airport.
- Left side (semi-circular layout): Terminal 1 and 2 with red roofs
- Right side (modern structure): Newly built Terminal 3 with white concrete roofs
Terminal 3 was still under construction in May 2016, and partially opened starting August 2016.
Terminal Interior Decoration (1)
A lamp-style decorative object in the departure area near the lounge.
Terminal Interior Decoration (2)
Another decorative lamp object inside the terminal.
SkyPriority
SkyPriority
- Eligible Guests:
- • Elite members of SkyTeam airlines (which includes KLM)
- • Business Class and First Class passengers on SkyTeam partner airlines
- Benefits:
- • Priority check-in and security screening
Shared Lounge Directory
This is a directory board for lounges used by various airlines and credit card members, located near the Garuda Indonesia lounge.
Megaphone
This is a counter near the boarding gate. Announcements were made using a megaphone — possibly due to the lack of a public address system in the terminal.
Apron View
This photo was taken from the boarding gate area, showing the airport apron.
Aircraft
This is the KLM Royal Dutch Airlines aircraft for today’s flight.
Lounge
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Lounge Entrance (1)
This is the entrance to the Garuda Indonesia Lounge. Since Garuda Indonesia has now moved to Terminal 3, this lounge no longer exists.
[Editorial note from Real Blue team: Moved to Terminal 3 after August 2016]
Lounge Entrance (2)
The area near the entrance of the Garuda Indonesia Lounge.
Seating Area
The seating area — it has a solid, stately feel.
Food Corner
The food corner features:
- Right side: Dim sum station
- Lifting the lid reveals hot items like shumai.
- Left side: Soup station
- You can add your favorite ingredients and spices to customize your bowl.
Seating Area (Alternate View)
Another view of the seating area from a different angle.
Food
Here’s the food I selected:
- • (Brown sweet on the left) Wajik – a chewy Indonesian sweet, very tasty
- [Editorial note: Wajik is made by cooking glutinous rice with sugar, coconut, and palm sugar]
- • (Vegetables) Green beans, carrots, etc.
- • (Fruits) Watermelon, papaya, and melon
In-flight Seat
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Business Class Seat
This is the Business Class seat.
Screen
The screen located in front of the seat.
Welcome Drink
A glass of champagne served as a welcome drink.
View Just Before Arrival
This is the view outside just before arriving in Kuala Lumpur.
In-flight Meal
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In-Flight Meal
This was the meal served onboard.
- • Beef stew with steamed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, onions)
- • A dish featuring taro
- • Mousse cake for dessert
- • Bread with olive oil
Main Dish
A close-up of the main dish.
Coffee and Cake
A serving of cake and coffee after the meal.
