KLM Launches New Thrice-Weekly Direct Flights to San Diego from Amsterdam
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is making waves in North America with the launch of a new year-round, direct service between Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) and San Diego International Airport (SAN). The will operate three weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Expanding its West Coast network and connecting Southern California to over 160 destinations worldwide via its European hub.
Flight Schedule at a Glance:
- KL639: Departs Amsterdam at 09:50, arriving in San Diego at 12:00 local time
- KL640: Departs San Diego at 13:55, arriving in Amsterdam at 09:15 the following day
These flights are served by KLM’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, offering a comfortable ride with:
- 30 World Business Class lie-flat seats
- 21 Premium Comfort (premium economy) seats
- 224 Economy Class seats
A Strategic Move for KLM and San Diego
San Diego marks KLM’s 15th destination in the United States, a move aligned with growing demand for direct transatlantic service from secondary U.S. cities. According to IATA and Cirium, international travel is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2025. With thousands of additional transatlantic seats already being added this summer alone.
This expansion also reflects the broader strategy of the Air France–KLM Group. Along with joint venture partners Delta and Virgin Atlantic, continues to capture the booming U.S.–Europe travel market, especially in premium leisure and business segments.
Why San Diego?
Known for its sunny skies, scenic coastline, and strong economy. San Diego is home to thriving industries such as aerospace, defense, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals. The new direct link to Amsterdam will not only support business travelers but also serve a growing population of Dutch expatriates and leisure travelers eager to explore Europe.
The city joins London and Munich as the third nonstop European gateway from San Diego. As international travel demand from the region surges—reportedly up 30% year-over-year.
Global Connectivity & SkyTeam Benefits
The eastbound KL640 flight provides excellent connectivity via Amsterdam to more than 160 destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. As a SkyTeam Alliance member, KLM also offers streamlined connections and frequent flyer benefits through its global network of partners.
More New Routes on the Horizon
San Diego isn’t the only new addition to KLM’s global route map in 2025. Two more destinations will join the network later this year:
- Georgetown, Guyana (from 4 June 2025): Two weekly flights with a brief stopover in Sint Maarten
- Hyderabad, India (from 2 September 2025): Three weekly nonstop flights
With these additions, KLM will operate 22 direct routes to North America and four direct routes to India, cementing its role as a key player in the global aviation landscape.