KLM and the Dutch Ministry of Defence have signed a new agreement to strengthen civil-military collaboration. The deal allows KLM pilots—particularly those in entry-level roles—to serve voluntarily as reservists, including on F-35 fighter jets, with five full-time equivalents (FTE) allocated for this purpose.
The partnership builds on years of cooperation in areas like repatriation and knowledge sharing. Both sides aim to expand joint efforts in recruitment, technical training, aircraft maintenance (MRO), and air transport.
Defence State Secretary Gijs Tuinman praised KLM’s support in addressing growing security challenges, while KLM CEO Marjan Rintel highlighted the initiative as a contribution to national resilience and a boost to KLM’s appeal as an employer.