KLM has reached an agreement with pilot union VNV, which could allow the airline to operate significantly more flights. The expectation is that “ten thousand extra flights” will be carried out and that “millions of passengers will be brought to their destinations.”
Thanks to the comprehensive agreement in principle, KLM can deploy pilots more effectively, according to statements from both KLM and VNV. The agreement includes arrangements for pilots to work one extra day per month during the summer season of 2026. KLM can also have pilots work one extra day per quarter on weekends.
Furthermore, there are agreements on training, simulator training, and exams. KLM is facing a pilot shortage, and this agreement should resolve that in whole or in part.
“These agreements allow us to fly more, which is one of the key points of the Back-on-Track program to become financially healthy again,” says HR Director Miriam Kartman.