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Recently, I enjoyed a weekend getaway to Porto with my family. Escaping the chilly Dutch winter, we sought the Portuguese sun. For this trip, I flew with KLM Cityhopper from Amsterdam Schiphol to Porto on the Embraer E195-E2. At the last minute, I decided to upgrade to Europe Business Class using Flying Blue miles. Here’s my review of the flight experience.

Booking via the KLM App

I booked my return flight from Amsterdam (AMS) to Porto (OPO) through the KLM app. Living in the south of the Netherlands, I opted to depart from Antwerp and took the Eurostar train to Schiphol. The train rides were part of my booking, and the full itinerary is detailed below:

The total cost for the Economy Class flight tickets (including train rides) was €377.82 per person. As a Flying Blue Platinum member, I could select an Economy Comfort seat free of charge, and hold luggage was included. On the day of departure, I upgraded to Europe Business Class via the KLM app for an additional 15,000 Flying Blue miles per person. While it’s possible to get more value from miles, I decided to indulge.

Weekend in Porto

Porto is a perfect winter destination, offering milder temperatures compared to Northern Europe. During this trip, I stayed at the Mercure Porto Aliados, a centrally located hotel with many attractions within walking distance. Both train and bus connections are conveniently nearby.

KLM Crown Lounge and Privium ClubLounge Departures

After a smooth train ride from Antwerp Central, I arrived at Schiphol station with plenty of time to spare. Travelling by train is ideal as it brings you directly to the airport, avoiding the hassle of parking. Before security, I visited the Privium ClubLounge Departures, which I find offers better food and drink options than the KLM Crown Lounge 25.

Boarding

My flight to Porto was operated on the Embraer E195-E2, registration PH-NXL, which is part of KLM’s modern fleet. Boarding was at Gate B1, followed by a short electric bus ride to the aircraft. After a slight delay, we departed from the Aalsmeer runway (18L 36R). The flight covered approximately 1,600 kilometres and lasted 2 hours and 42 minutes.

Cabin and Seating

The Embraer E195-E2 features 132 Recaro seats in a 2-2 layout across Europe Business Class, Economy Comfort, and Economy. While Business Class offers 84 cm of legroom (compared to 74-76 cm in Economy), the seats are identical to Economy Comfort, lacking the middle seat advantage found on KLM’s Boeing 737s. USB-A ports are available for charging, but there are no power outlets, and the seats are non-reclinable.

Meals and Service

Business Class passengers are treated to enhanced service, with a dedicated cabin attendant. Shortly after boarding, I received a bottle of water and a refreshing towel.

The meal service included an oriental noodle salad with edamame and teriyaki jackfruit, a warm bread roll, and macarons for dessert.

Drinks were served in glassware, and the menu featured a variety of options, including Cava, wines, and spirits:

Soft drinks: Coca-Cola (Zero), Sprite, Ginger Ale, Royal Club Tonic, San Pellegrino sparkling water and Spa blue. Or fresh orange juice, apple juice, tomato juice or milk. Hot drinks: Douwe Egbert coffee (also decaf) and Dammann tea (the menu still says Pickwick). Wine: In addition to the Cava, there is also a choice of an Esploratori Pinot Grigio, F. De Fabregues Rhône blend and a red Merlot or Tempranillo blend. Beer: Heineken (0.0). Spirits: Johnnie Walker Black Label, Ketel One Vodka, Damrak Gin, Bacardi White Rum, Moyet Cognac VSOP and Baileys Irish Cream.

A hot snack was served before landing, but the Mexican empanada was underwhelming. Fortunately, a brownie from Economy Class was offered as an alternative.

Toilets

The front toilet is reserved for Business Class passengers and features Marie-Stella-Maris hand soap, a premium touch compared to the Economy facilities.

Arrival in Porto

We landed at Porto Airport slightly behind schedule, arriving just after 22:30 local time. Unlike at Schiphol, the plane was connected to a jet bridge, allowing for a quick and easy disembarkation. From there, it was a short journey to my hotel.

Final Thoughts

KLM’s Europe Business Class on the Embraer E195-E2 offers a comfortable and enjoyable experience, though it lacks some of the perks found on larger aircraft like the Boeing 737. The service was excellent, and the meal quality was impressive for a short-haul flight. While the upgrade may not always represent the best value for Flying Blue miles, it’s a worthwhile treat for those looking to enhance their journey