KLM E&M accelerates aircraft mechanic training with dedicated training aircraft
KLM Engineering & Maintenance (E&M) is taking a major step forward in developing new technical talent. With the phase-out of the Boeing 737 fleet, one aircraft has been fully converted into a dedicated training plane. This allows trainee mechanics to learn their trade in a faster, more hands-on way, reducing the pathway to becoming a mechanic (level 1) from more than two years to just nine months. The first training groups will begin practical instruction on the aircraft starting in June 2026.
The global demand for well-trained aircraft technicians is high. “Competition for technical talent is strong, not only in the Netherlands, but around the world. At the same time, many of our experienced colleagues are approaching retirement in the coming years. That’s why we are making significant investments in recruiting and training a new generation of mechanics,” said Mathieu Essenberg, Executive Vice President of KLM E&M. “With this training aircraft, we can respond more quickly and effectively to future demand, without compromising on quality or safety. What we are launching today goes beyond training alone: it’s an investment in the future of KLM E&M.”
Independent from Daily Operations
In the past, trainee mechanics relied on maintenance schedules for operational aircraft. This often resulted in long wait times, unnecessarily extending the training process. With the introduction of the training aircraft, all maintenance procedures can now be practiced immediately and at an individual pace, without depending on day-to-day operations.
Fabio Kortekaas, a mechanic in training at KLM E&M who will begin working on the training aircraft in September, shared his enthusiasm: “It’s incredible that we now have our own aircraft to practice on. You learn so much faster when you can really get hands-on. I’m looking forward to putting everything into practice together with my fellow students.”
Future-Ready Training
The training aircraft is more than just a learning environment. It’s a place where education and innovation come together. Students, experienced technicians, and experts collaborate here on real-world maintenance challenges. “We are building the talent of tomorrow. Technicians who are not only technically skilled, but who also think and act with innovation and sustainability in mind,” Essenberg added.