KLM cancels LCY-AMS -to VLM?

AussieM - 04/01/2009 13:47 GMT

HEADER should now be switched from KLM & VLM to Cityjet sorry...

Just received a KLM email for part of my return flight arrangements from Australia, but from Singpore with KLM, through to LCY, Business class.

Just made a few searches, & this link on the VLM website appears to clariffy: "Starting 5 January, all flights from Amsterdam to London City Airport — previously operated by VLM Airlines and KLM Cityhopper — will be operated by CityJet to optimize service to customers:

CityJet will operate its flights using jet aircraft of the AVRO RJ-85 type, furnished with brand-new interiors in a 95-seat layout, both business class and economy class will be offered onboard. CityJet will provide eight return flights from Monday through Friday, one on Saturdays and four on Sundays. The flights from Amsterdam to London City will be operated as a VLM and KLM code share and will continue to be sold through the VLM and KLM website and sales channels".

http://www.flyvlm.com/emc.asp?pageId=1328

It details further, that VLM are considering entering the Fly Blue program.

One advantage, they list the Avro RJ85 aircraft rather than the old Fokker (Excuse my language!)..which can only be an improvement!

I presume we will accrue now as it will be cityjet, rather than KLM, with an upgraded aircraft & comfort on board. Notable for those thinking they fly VLM or KLM though, perhaps for mileage& benefits, however they are distributed now.

Anyone any info? BT team can offer any infornmation? Thanks...

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BusinessTraveller - 09/01/2009 15:02 GMT

Business Traveller replies:

Cityjet is operating flights between London City (LCY) and Amsterdam on behalf of VLM/KLM because a) VLM has no jets of its own and b) even if KLM had spare jets to operate this route (which is doubtful) it could be that its F70 and F100 craft aren’t approved to use LCY’s restricted runway.

Cityjet along with VLM are part of the Air France KLM group.

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AussieM - 14/01/2009 13:59 GMT

Thanks. But having bought my ticket as a one way on the VLM site, i dont get to accrue miles or have the benefits of the Gold card when i checked in yesterday?

KLM charge exhorbitant rates for a one way, VLM site doesnt, yet book from KLM, VLM, or Cityjet sites, its all the same flight. According to VLM news, they have not integrated the FFP yet, so a bit confusing. I suppose its where you book it from that will count or not, on which airlines site. At least its a more comfortable trip than the F50, & almost double capacity for each flight, though 1/3rd of the flights have gone now. Wonder what they will do with the slots?

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