Becoming a cabin maintenance mechanic at KLM: what to expect

Technical

Working on the cabin of a Boeing 777, repairing a defective toilet, replacing a seat, or fully preparing an aircraft for its next flight: as a cabin mechanic at KLM, no two days are the same. With internal training, extensive practical experience, and a unique work environment, you ensure that thousands of passengers fly comfortably and safely every day.

KLM's cabin in top condition

When a KLM aircraft requires cabin maintenance, it comes to Cabin Maintenance in hangars 11, 12 or 14 at Schiphol-East. Here we inspect, repair, and improve everything passengers use and see during their flight.

From seats and overhead bins to toilets, galley equipment and cabin panels: you ensure everything works as it should. An aircraft is often inside for less than 24 hours, so you see immediate results from your work. In maintenance today, already on its way to a destination somewhere in the world tomorrow.

In addition, cabin mechanics also work at the gate at Schiphol-Centre. Here you prepare an aircraft for departure by, for example, adjusting seats, replacing emergency equipment, or installing special provisions such as a stretcher.

Is everything working? Check!

Every morning starts with a comprehensive cabin inspection. Is every seat properly secured? Do all reading lights work? Are the toilets operational? And is the interior still in good condition?

During this inspection, you record all findings. Then, you and your colleagues set to work to fully restore the cabin. Sometimes it involves a small repair, sometimes replacing complete components. As a cabin mechanic, you are responsible for the maintenance of everything within the passenger cabin.

Learning by doing

Whether you already have technical experience or want to make a career switch: at Cabin Maintenance, we primarily believe in motivation, technical insight, and a practical mindset.

At KLM, you largely learn the trade on the job. From day one, you work with experienced colleagues who guide you in cabin maintenance. Step by step, you gain more responsibilities and become familiar with more systems, materials, and repair techniques.

Within approximately one year, we will train you to become a certified cabin mechanic. Thanks to your All Type Certificate, you will eventually be allowed to work on all aircraft types within the KLM fleet. This makes the work varied and challenging.

We provide guidance, training, and certification. All you need to bring are a pair of helping hands, curiosity, and a willingness to learn.

Did you know that an experienced cabin mechanic can replace a complete aircraft seat in less than 15 minutes?

Thijs, teamlead Cabin Maintenance

Your development at KLM

After obtaining your certification, you will continue to develop yourself. You can specialize further within Cabin Maintenance, mentor new colleagues, or advance to other technical roles within Engineering & Maintenance.

This way, you not only contribute to the cabins of our aircraft but also to your own future.