Coronavirus: most asked questions
Since the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19), we have been monitoring the situation minutely and are doing everything possible to assist you with your upcoming travel plans. Here, you'll find up-to-date answers to the most asked questions.
Last updated: Monday 18 October 2021, 11:00 AM (Amsterdam time)
Top 5 most asked questions
Do I need to get tested on COVID-19 before my flight?
Are you travelling from the Netherlands?
Are you travelling (back) to the Netherlands?
Do you have a transfer in the Netherlands?
Access to the Netherlands
You may be requested to show the needed documents to airport staff or the designated (medical) authorities, such as the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee. If you cannot show these documents, you may be denied entry into the Netherlands.
Where can I find the nearest COVID-19 test centre?
Do you need a COVID-19 test before your trip? SkyTeam has developed an interactive map of approved testing centres around the world.
I am already vaccinated for COVID-19. Do I still need to get tested?
Note: scanning the QR code is not yet possible at all airports. Please make sure to bring your vaccination certificate, negative test result or recovery certificate with you on paper.
Do I have to wear a face mask during my trip?
Requirements
Face masks must cover nose and mouth and can be surgical or non-surgical. Scarves, bandanas, or cowls are not allowed. A suitable face mask should fit snugly against the side of your face and cover the nose, mouth and chin and should consist of at least 2 layers of tightly woven fabric, such as cotton or linen. The mask should not have exhalation valves or vents.
If the face mask gets moist or dirty, you need to change to a new one. You must wear a new face mask every 3 hours. Make sure to bring enough masks with you to last the entire journey.
At some destinations, the local authorities have different requirements for face masks. If you are flying with KLM, you will receive an informative e-mail in the week before departure with the details about the measures at your destination.
Wearing a face mask
When putting on your mask, make sure to cover your nose, mouth and chin. Use the loops or ties to remove your mask and do not touch the mask itself. Wash your hands with water and soap or use disinfectant hand gel immediately. Make sure to also do this before eating, drinking and after making use of the toilet.
Exceptions
Passengers up to 10 years old don’t have to wear a face mask.
If you can’t wear a face mask because of medical reasons you need to have:
- A signed and stamped medical certificate from your physician. You can download the certificate, print it and ask your physician to sign and stamp it. You need to bring this certificate with you on your trip.
- A negative COVID-19 NAAT test result. The test has to be taken within 72 hours before departure and you must bring along a hard copy of this test result. If your return flight is within 72 hours of the first COVID-19 NAAT test, you don’t need to take a new test. One test is enough. If your return flight is after 72 hours, you do need to take another COVID-19 NAAT test at your destination.
You will need to show the original paper copies of both documents during check-in, boarding and also on board. If you can’t provide both documents, we cannot allow you to board.
If you are medically exempted from wearing a face mask and you have the above-mentioned documents, please report this to one of our KLM agents at the airport.
Face masks at the airport
Eating and drinking
You can temporarily remove your mask while eating or drinking. Make sure to follow the instructions on how to remove and put on your mask. Store your mask in a clean space (e.g. in the original packaging or in a clean plastic bag). You’re not allowed to slide your mask under your chin or put it on your head.
I want to rebook or cancel my flight, what do I need to do?
Bookings via a travel agency
Unfortunately, you cannot use our online refund system if you booked via a travel agent. We advise contacting your travel agent first, as they have all needed information to arrange your refund. You can find contact details on their website. If you prefer, you can also contact us directly to help arranging your refund.
Bookings via a partner airline
If you’ve purchased your ticket via one of our partner airlines, we strongly advise you to contact the concerning airline for detailed information about the rebook possibilities.