KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is one of the world’s most respected airlines, known for its commitment to excellent service and safety. If you’re aspiring to become a flight attendant with KLM, this article will guide you through the essential steps, from the application process to what you can expect in training. Becoming a cabin crew member with KLM is a prestigious opportunity, but the selection process is competitive. Here’s how you can stand out and successfully land the job.

Meeting the basic requirements

Before applying to KLM, it’s crucial to ensure you meet the airline’s basic qualifications:

  • Age: You must be at least 21 years old.
  • Height: Your height must be between 1.58 meters (5’2″) and 1.90 meters (6’2″).
  • Language proficiency: Fluency in Dutch and English is required.
  • Physical Fitness: You must be able to swim 50 meters unaided, and undergo a full medical examination, including vision and hearing tests.
  • No visible tattoos or piercings: Grooming standards must be followed.
  • Location: You must be willing to live within 90 minutes of Amsterdam Schiphol Airport​

The application process

To apply, you’ll need to go to the KLM Careers website and search for the available cabin crew vacancies. You will fill out an online application form and upload the necessary documents:

  • A professional resume.
  • A full-body and passport-sized photograph (taken professionally, in business attire).
  • Relevant certifications or qualifications​.

After submitting your application, the recruitment team will review your qualifications. If you pass the initial screening, you’ll receive an invitation to participate in the selection process​.

Selection and interview rounds

KLM’s selection process is thorough, designed to assess not just your skills but also your suitability for the role. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Digital Tests: These include English language proficiency, mathematical skills, and competency tests.
  • Meet & Greet: If you pass the digital tests, you’ll be invited to meet the recruiters. During this stage, you will give a short presentation in both English and Dutch.
  • Group Assignment: This is a practical test that assesses how well you work in a team under pressure.
  • Criteria-Based Interview (CBI): You’ll undergo a competency-based interview with two recruiters. They will evaluate your problem-solving skills, ability to handle stress, and overall personality[1]​.

Medical and security checks

After passing the interview rounds, you will undergo a medical examination to ensure you’re fit to fly. This will include alcohol and drug tests, and possibly an eye exam. Additionally, a background check and a security screening will be conducted[2].

Training program

Once you’ve successfully passed all the selection rounds, you’ll start KLM’s initial training program. The training consists of two phases:

  • Phase 1: A digital course that takes approximately 40 hours.
  • Phase 2: A 20-day, intensive training program held at Schiphol-East. You’ll cover safety procedures, customer service, and everything you need to know about KLM’s operations[3]​.

Salary and benefits

As a newly hired cabin crew member at KLM, your starting salary will be around €2,842.54 per month[4]. This can increase based on experience and seniority. In addition to the base salary, flight attendants enjoy various benefits, including:

  • Daily allowances during layovers.
  • Travel discounts for flights and accommodations.
  • Travel allowance.
  • Profit-sharing plans and 13th month.
  • Health and life insurance[5].

Work-Life balance

KLM prides itself on offering a healthy work-life balance for its employees. Crew members often work scheduled shifts, ensuring adequate rest periods. The company also offers opportunities for career growth within the airline, including senior cabin crew roles and corporate positions​.

KLM uniform and professionalism

KLM places a strong emphasis on the professional appearance of its cabin crew. The uniform is a key part of their identity, and crew members are expected to wear it with pride. Maintaining a well-groomed appearance and following KLM’s uniform guidelines is an important part of the job​.

Ready to start your journey? Share your thoughts below!

Becoming a flight attendant with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is an exciting and rewarding career. If you have any questions about the application process or life as a cabin crew member, leave a comment below or join our cabin crew forum. Also, check our cabin crew jobs page to see the latest openings at KLM!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the basic requirements to become a flight attendant at KLM?

You need to be at least 21 years old, with a height between 1.58 meters and 1.90 meters. You must be fluent in Dutch and English, physically fit, and able to swim 50 meters unaided. You also need to live within 90 minutes of Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

2. How do I apply for a flight attendant position at KLM?

You can apply through the KLM Careers website. Submit a professional resume, along with a full-body and passport-sized photograph, and relevant certifications.

3. What does KLM’s selection process involve?

The process includes digital tests for language and math skills, a group assignment, and a competency-based interview. You will also give a short presentation in both English and Dutch.

4. Are there medical and security checks?

Yes, after passing the interview rounds, you will undergo a medical examination, including drug and alcohol tests, as well as a background check and security screening.

5. What does the training program at KLM involve?

The training starts with a digital course followed by a 20-day intensive program at Schiphol-East. You’ll learn safety procedures, customer service skills, and more about KLM’s operations.

6. What is the salary for KLM flight attendants?

The starting salary is around €2,842.54 per month, with increases based on experience. Additional benefits include layover allowances, travel discounts, profit-sharing, and health insurance.

7. How is the work-life balance at KLM?

KLM provides a good work-life balance, with scheduled shifts and ample rest periods. There are also career growth opportunities within the airline.

8. What are KLM’s grooming and uniform standards?

KLM has strict grooming standards, and flight attendants are expected to maintain a professional appearance while wearing the uniform, which is a key part of the airline’s identity.

References:

1. KLM. “Selection procedure for cabin crew KLM.” KLM Careers Website. Retrieved September 25, 2024.

2. KLM. “Selection procedure for cabin crew KLM.” KLM Careers Website. Retrieved September 25, 2024.

3. KLM. “Selection and training: KLM cabin.” KLM Careers Website. Retrieved September 25, 2024.

4. KLM. “Selection and training: KLM cabin.” KLM Careers Website. Retrieved September 25, 2024.

5. KLM. “Selection and training: KLM cabin.” KLM Careers Website. Retrieved September 25, 2024.