January

Anybody know what this means?

I know it's a big generalization, but I've always enjoyed KLM flights within Europe, and had such awful experiences with Northwest that I never want to fly them again. I'm thinking of taking an Orbitz offer of a KLM flight from the States "operated by Northwest Airlines." Does this mean NW flight crew and ground crew?

Thanks!

andrews98682

It means you're on a codeshare and that you'll be on a Northwest flight.

January

Thank you, Andrews. That definitely helps me decide!

wally34949

Check to see if NWA is flying the Airbus A330 aircraft. Seating is 2x4x2 great video and many people really like the aircraft.

I believe NWA has gotten rid of all of their DC-10's--finally.

travelgourmet

Northwest and KLM operate a joint venture for their trans-Atlantic flights. All revenues and costs are split 50/50. This is much more than just a codesharing agreement.

FWIW, here are my thoughts:

1) Ground crew makes no difference. You will get NW on the US side and KLM on the Amsterdam side, regardless of who's plane you are on.

2) As far as the planes, I think the NW A330 is probably the most comfortable coach plane operating across the Atlantic. They feature 2-4-2 seating, AVOD, power ports at many seats, and decent legroom. The exit rows are especially nice. I will go out of my way to get on one of these planes.

3) I would be hesitant to extrapolate from your European experience to the trans-Atlantic one. I agree that coach within Europe on KLM is decent, but KLM offers some pretty lousy planes across the Atlantic, especially in coach. Their 747s are brutally uncomfortable, and I've heard the MD11s are just as bad. The 777s are barely better, if at all, and the A330s are not as nice as the NW ones.

4) Cabin service is pretty standard, with both carriers offering similar meal service and both offering free booze.

5) In business class, the new NW product is substantially better, with a much more comfortable seat.

My long-winded point is that I would <b><i>actively seek out the NW-operated flights</i></b>, as opposed to the KLM-operated flights. Indeed, for coach flights, I actively seek out NW-operated A330 flights over all other airlines.

dfr4848

Yes, it means you'll be on a NW plane with its flight crew. But also agree with above comments, especially about comparing domestic (whether Europe or US) flight experience with international ones.

January

Wally, Travelgourmet and dfr, thank you very much! My experience is limited, and I'm very glad to hear that NW flights can be good ones! I will now actively seek out the NW-operated flights, especially the A330 ones.

I appreciate your help so much!

travelgourmet

Glad I could be of help. I hope that your experience with NW is a good one, like mine have been. I'm not saying it will change your life, but they are most certainly not an airline to be avoided.