KLM has launched a new route between Amsterdam (AMS) and Las Vegas (LAS), increasing the airline’s network in North America to 18 destinations. The service began June 6, 2019, operating twice weekly and scheduled to increase to three weekly flights beginning July 2, 2019.
The outbound flight, KL0635, departs Amsterdam Schiphol at 12:30 p.m. on Fridays and Sundays, with an additional Tuesday departure starting July 2, and arrives in Las Vegas at 2:15 p.m. local time. The return service, KL0636, departs Las Vegas at 4:05 p.m. and arrives back in Amsterdam at 11:05 a.m. the following day, offering convenient connections for both business and leisure travelers.
For this route KLM is deploying a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner configured with 294 seats. The cabin layout includes 30 seats in business class, 45 seats in Economy Comfort for extra legroom, and 219 seats in the economy cabin. This mix aims to serve a wide range of passenger needs, from premium travelers seeking greater comfort to economy passengers looking for value on a long-haul leisure route.
To accommodate the new Las Vegas service, KLM has discontinued flights to Freetown (FNA), Sierra Leone, and Monrovia (ROB), Liberia. The decision reflects an operational reallocation of fleet and slot resources. KLM stated that although the Freetown/Monrovia route, launched in 2017, might have benefitted from a longer period to mature, the airline must now adjust its network deployment based on current priorities.
Passengers holding reservations on flights between Amsterdam and Freetown or Monrovia for travel after March 29, 2019 will be offered rebooking options or reimbursement, according to the airline. KLM also noted that Air France will continue to operate direct flights from Paris Charles de Gaulle to Freetown, maintaining connectivity to that West African destination.
The new Amsterdam–Las Vegas service strengthens KLM’s transatlantic offering and expands Schiphol’s connections to major leisure and entertainment markets. The twice-weekly start, moving to three weekly frequencies, provides flexibility for travelers planning both short breaks and longer stays in Las Vegas, and aligns with seasonal demand patterns typical for leisure-focused destinations.
By introducing the Dreamliner on the route, KLM leverages the aircraft’s fuel efficiency and passenger comfort features, such as a quieter cabin and improved humidity and pressure levels, which can make the long-haul journey more pleasant. The three-class cabin configuration also allows the airline to tailor its product to different market segments, from premium travelers to families and groups traveling for leisure.
Overall, KLM’s Amsterdam–Las Vegas connection represents a strategic expansion in its long-haul network, balancing growth into high-demand leisure markets with adjustments to its overall route portfolio. Travelers previously using KLM’s services to West Africa should check communications from the airline regarding rebooking or refunds and explore alternative carriers or schedules as needed.