Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is the primary hub for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, offering seamless connectivity and world-class service. Whether you’re flying within Europe or embarking on an international journey, understanding the layout and facilities of the KLM Airlines AMS Terminal can make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. This guide covers everything you need to know about the KLM terminal at AMS, including check-in, lounges, gates, and amenities.

KLM Airlines and Amsterdam Schiphol: A Historic Partnership

As the flag carrier of the Netherlands and one of the world's oldest airlines, KLM has a deep-rooted connection with Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. AMS serves as KLM’s primary hub, handling a significant portion of its European and intercontinental flights. The airport is designed as a single-terminal concept, meaning that all operations, including those of KLM, are under one roof, divided into different departure halls and piers.

Which Terminal Does KLM Use at AMS?

KLM operates from Departure Halls 1 and 2 at Schiphol Airport. Despite being a single-terminal airport, AMS is split into three main departure halls (1, 2, and 3), each serving specific airlines and destinations. KLM predominantly uses:

• Departure Hall 1: For Schengen zone flights
• Departure Hall 2: For both Schengen and non-Schengen flights, including long-haul destinations

Once inside the terminal, KLM passengers are directed to the appropriate hall based on their destination and travel class. KLM’s check-in desks and self-service kiosks are prominently located in these halls for quick and easy processing.

Departure Gates and Piers for KLM Flights

After check-in and security clearance, travelers proceed to one of the airport’s multiple piers:

• Pier B and C: Primarily for KLM’s short-haul European and Schengen flights
• Pier D: Mixed-use pier for both Scavenge and non-Scavenge flights
• Pier E: Main pier for KLM's intercontinental and long-haul destinations

These piers are well-connected, and thanks to the airport’s open design, moving between gates is efficient—even during peak hours.

Check-in, Security, and Baggage at KLM AMS Terminal

Passengers can check in at the staffed KLM counters or use the self-service kiosks in Departure Halls 1 and 2. For those traveling light with hand luggage, online check-in and mobile boarding passes simplify the process even further.Security and passport control at Schiphol are efficiently managed, but travelers are advised to arrive:

• 2 hours before a Scavenge flight
• 3 hours before a non-Scavenge or long-haul flight

Baggage drop-off is fast and automated for those who have checked in online, and KLM also provides baggage assistance desks for special cases.

Dining, Shopping, and Services in the Terminal