Flying Blue Rewards Scheme is not as advertised.

I give up with KLM. I joined their Flying Blue rewards programme and flew with them for many years from South Africa to UK return, I am a Silver Member, have accrued 37,700 miles but, during the past three years, have been unable to get an upgrade from economy to business. I have a non-profit and I'm 68 years old so the whole point of being faithful to KLM and accruing miles when I fly was to have some comfort every now and then. Despite what they say in their advertising it's not possible to upgrade on line, you have to call them and can wait 7 to 15 minutes for a reply. Then I'm told there are no upgrades available for my reservation. So I have to start again and make a new reservation, call them, wait for at least 7 minutes and then get told, no, there's no upgrade available that day either. It doesn't matter how many times I go through this long process, there is never any availability. I believe they are guilty of false advertising and need to be called to account. When I call them they are completely unsympathetic and unhelpful. Look at how they promote Flying Blue - it's all lies.

UPGRADE IN ADVANCE Know you want more comfort? Take advantage of the opportunity—exclusive to Flying Blue members—to upgrade to a higher cabin in advance!(1) This ensures you can get the best price and availability.

Eligible airlines: Air France and KLM marketed and operated flights and some partner airlines (see full list of eligible partner airlines and booking classes in link below) Available payment methods: Miles When: at least 24 hours before your flight, subject to availability in the reward booking class How to request: online or by phone