Originally Posted by Klm is Dead - Long Live KLM
Yes, things also do go right on KLM. The question is how to increase your chances of them going right.
Reserving a non-bizclass seat on KLM however is usually not possible
Unfortunately, there is no way to really conveniently guarantee an attractive economy class seat ahead of time on KLM.
risk that KLM will do a mass re-assignment of seats before the operational prep window for that flight.
Well you must have been a very unlucky traveller indeed.
You can reserve Economy Class seats via your agent or telephone reservations. But only for intercontinental stretches.
Operational preparation is usually done before the OLCI time window opens.
Mass re-assignment does occur if there is an aircraft type change.
I travel quite a bit too, (at least 15 intercontinental returns per year and 25 intra-europe returns)
My intercontinental stretches are usually in business class, no issues there.
Intra-europe stretches always in Economy (unless I am able to combine an intercontinental stretch with an intra-europe stretch, which some C-clss fares allow).
And have never had the problems to the extent that you describe.
Not on KLM, not on AirFrance, not on BA or LH.