Ground Services
From check-in and boarding to loading, unloading and refueling: the perfect pit stop thanks to our colleagues at Ground Services
Within Ground Services, everything revolves around timing, teamwork and precision. The moment an aircraft lands at Schiphol, the operation kicks into gear. Ramp agents take over the aircraft, baggage teams unload and reload, and coordinators keep the schedule on track. Every minute matters. Everyone works toward a single goal: a safe, on-time departure.
Ground Services is the foundation of KLM's daily operation. Without smooth ground handling, nothing moves. Here, you see the results of your work straight away.
What it looks like in practice
Take the turnaround of an aircraft. As soon as a plane reaches the gate, ramp agents position it and maintain contact with the cockpit. They then carry out the pushback and guide the aircraft safely onto the platform.
At Baggage & Load Control, colleagues make sure luggage and cargo are on board correctly and on time. They build pallets, monitor weight distribution and verify everything before the aircraft departs.
At De-icing operations, specialists remove ice from wings and fuselage using dedicated vehicles — so aircraft can take off safely, even in severe winter conditions.
Throughout the entire turnaround, turnaround coordinators keep the overview. They monitor planning and safety and make sure every step connects seamlessly to the next.
Room to grow
At Ground Services, you learn the trade hands-on. You start in a specific role and develop through training and certifications — think load control, safety or operational coordination.
You work alongside colleagues from different disciplines and learn from each other on the job. Within teams, close-knit communities form around craftsmanship and shared knowledge.
Want to go further? Opportunities exist in senior roles, team lead or supervisory positions. You can choose to specialise or broaden your skills. Some colleagues later move to other divisions within KLM. Step by step, you build your career in aviation.
Your role
As a Ground Services team member, you work at the pace of the operation. You think fast, keep the overview and work side by side with your team. Whether you're guiding an aircraft, processing baggage or coordinating the turnaround — your contribution counts with every single flight.
You make sure everything is right before the aircraft takes off.
Meet the team
From check-in and boarding to loading, unloading and refuelling, thanks to our Ground Services colleagues, every KLM plane gets the perfect pit stop at Schiphol.
