Training is high priority for KLM

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KLM freighter leaving NBO airport filled with roses


Training is one of the top priorities for KLM Cargo as part of its goal to be the globe’s number one cargo carrier.

KLM Cargo manager of compliance knowledge, Gert Mijnders (pictured) says training is now such an important tool within the industry and it “certainly” is for KLM Cargo.

Mijnders explains: “We cannot afford a lack of training. It is highly unthinkable not to train staff properly and at the same time to demand an effective and performance.”

For KLM Cargo, training is vital in providing a quality service and Mijnders says its aim is to be “world’s best airline on safety” and in order to achieve that, training programmes should all be at a high quality level.

He notes: “That is the only way to achieve well-trained staff and a high quality product. In all our training the content is only delivered by subject matter experts who work with and knows exactly what the quality standards are.

“These quality standards are based on four major topics, which are security, flight safety, occupational safety and craftsmanship.”

Mijnders says to drive operational efficiency all training is up to date to make sure that changes within the rules and regulations are known immediately by staff.

“Furthermore we use the online learning method to inform our staff as quickly as possible and to be consistent. To drive the performance we think it is better to have personal interaction and that’s why our basic training are always classroom trainings. Refreshers are online-based trainings,” he says.

Mijnders says the biggest need for training is coming from KLM management themselves, but he notes it also comes from regulators who require that staff are trained to be compliant to the rules and regulations within different sectors such as safety, security and craftsmanship.

KLM Cargo runs online and classroom-based training sessions and for cargo staff it runs different training programmes based on their job function.

He explains: “In general you may say that office staff must fulfill the security and safety programme. Operational staff also have to do training like pharma handling, drivers licence, DGR, and ULD build up.”

“KLM introduces the KLM Compass. This programme is also called ‘Moving Your World’ with the purpose to create memorable experiences,” Mijnders adds.

He believes training is as important as ever in the airline industry: “Training becomes more and more important, especially in the airline industry. Authorities require that staff are aware and act upon security issues – ‘see something, say something’.”