# KLM will split short-haul catering into 5 bands from 11 October 2026

_Oct 9 15:28_

Tags: Air France-KLM, policy change, airline, service policy change

Type: Industry news

## Summary

KLM will launch a buy-on-board program across its short-haul network from 11 October 2026, with 4 different catering service levels. Extra-short Band 1 hops such as Brussels get only water or a hot drink and a snack, with no paid catering, while Band 2 adds complimentary orange juice.

Band 3 routes allow meal pre-orders but may lack buy-on-board food and possibly beverages on some flights. Band 4 and Band 5 get the full buy-on-board menu plus pre-order meals, with a Classic Caesar Salad at $14.30 from 25 October 2026. Last-minute aircraft swaps could load the wrong catering for a band, and short-haul business class boxed meals are not being updated.

LoyaltyLobby argues that 5 bands and 4 service levels will confuse crews and passengers compared with one network-wide buy-on-board option. Award and revenue passengers on KLM within Europe will not see the same catering on every flight, and buy-on-board will exist only on the longer bands.

Before counting on a meal on a KLM European flight, check which of the 5 service bands the route falls into.

## Key facts

- **Starts**: Oct 11, 2026
- **Numbers**:
  - 14.30 USD: Classic Caesar Salad pre-order price
  - 16.60 USD: salmon poke bowl pre-order price
  - 15.50 USD: pancakes with red fruit pre-order price
- **Where**: BRE, BRU, DUS, NWI, FRA, HAJ, HAM, LCY, LHR, HUY
- **Takeaway**: Before counting on a meal on KLM within Europe, check which of the five service bands your route falls into.

## Sources cited

- [LoyaltyLobby](https://loyaltylobby.com/2026/10/09/klms-buy-on-board-surprise-five-bands-of-flights-with-four-tiers-of-service?omhide=true) — KLM’s Buy-on-Board Surprise! FIVE Bands of Flights With FOUR Tiers Of Service

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