KLM, pilots’ union agree on measures to ease pilot shortage and expand capacity

KLM has made agreements with the pilots' union VNV, which the airline thinks will lead to the possibility of more flights. The deal states that pilots will work an extra day every month in the summer season. Pilots will also have the option of working an extra day on the weekend once every quarter.

“More than 10,000 additional flights are expected to be operated and millions of extra passengers brought to their destinations,” the statement from KLM reads.

KLM has been suffering from a pilot shortage, but this preliminary agreement is expected to accelerate the resolution. Agreements were also made regarding the training of pilots. Obligated simulation training and exams can also be taken during the weekend as a result of the agreement. Being able to operate more flights is one of KLM’s priorities in its efforts to regain financial health.

According to KLM, the pilots will also receive “appropriate compensation” for this “major investment in the company’s future.” One agreement concerns the arrangement that allows pilots to travel at a discount once a year. This will become a fixed part of their employment conditions.

It was also agreed that the rest areas in the new Airbus A350 aircraft will be fitted with extended beds, which are said to be necessary for the relatively tall Dutch pilots.

No bonuses or wage increases were included in the preliminary agreement, a KLM spokesperson said. The VNV pointed out that the standard overtime regulations apply. “If more overtime is worked, a pilot can earn more,” a spokesperson for the pilots’ union said.

The intention is for the preliminary agreement, which VNV members still need to vote on in September, to become part of the new pilots’ collective labor agreement that is still under negotiation.