Cockpit
You can get a job at KLM as a pilot via two routes: either you come straight from the KLM Flight Academy, or you’re already an experienced pilot and would like to transfer to KLM. In the second case, keep a close eye on our career site. If there is a vacancy open, check the requirements for applying.
Flight training is very expensive. However, KLM believes it’s important that anyone with the right talents and motivation can become a pilot, which is why the KLM Flight Academy (KFA) has a financing scheme. Find out more on the KFA site.
On the day of your employment, your type rating must be valid, and your medical must remain valid for at least three months.
We are looking for pilots who have had UPRT (upset prevention and recovery training) during their initial flight training and/or have recently flown with an airline covered by EASA regulations. If these options don’t apply to you, then we will ask you to demonstrate that you have had this training.
The selection criteria are KLM's minimum requirements to be considered for the position. Only if you meet them will we consider your application. To avoid disappointment, we advise you not to apply if you do not meet the selection criteria.
If you'd like to know more about the current application procedure, you can read more here.
No, during the application process all costs, such as travel expenses or a hotel stay, are at your own expense.
The outcome - whether positive or negative - of your application for the position of airline pilot is valid for two years.
As soon as we can place you in a position, we will inform you immediately. In doing so, we take into account, wherever possible, any notice period you may have from your current position.
Yes, you will get a permanent contract, with a probationary period of two months.
The salary is laid down in the CLA. Your age, period of employment and your exact position determine the level of salary. A starting salary is between EUR 3,300 and EUR 5,500 gross per month, excluding benefits and pension allowances. After completing the Type Rating Course, the salary will be between EUR 5,500 and EUR 8,300 gross per month, excluding emoluments and pension allowances.
You are entitled to 35 days per leave year. There is also parental leave, care leave, special leave, calamity leave, and non-activity/unpaid leave.
The roster is based on a 4-week schedule. Every week you receive the roster, in which 4 weeks are fixed and 2 weeks are subject to change. Via a schedule request/bid system, it is possible to have a certain amount of influence on your schedule. Among other things, this allows you to request a number of days off, request a particular flight or try to swap your holiday.
You can live wherever you like. However, if during a standby duty you are called before 07:00, you must be at Schiphol within 60 minutes. If the call is after 07:00, the response time is a maximum of 90 minutes.
When you are at your destination, you will receive a daily allowance. The amount of the daily allowance is determined based on hotel and local restaurant prices. The daily allowance is fixed in local currency.
The retirement age is 58 years. KLM offers the option of part-time work (90%, 80%, 67% and - under certain conditions - 50%).
By working part-time, it is possible to postpone the retirement date until the age of 62 at the latest. For more information about the fund, contact Pensioenfonds Vliegend Personeel KLM.
A job at KLM provides great perks such as buying plane tickets at reduced rates or discounted hotel rates. Check for all the benefits of working at KLM.
Yes, KLM applies the NVP job application code. At KLM, we stand for a transparent and fair job application process.
If you haven't found the answer to your question, feel free to contact us at klm.pilot.recruitment@klm.com.