The collaboration stems from the agreement signed in 2025, aimed at leveraging knowledge, expertise and capacity to strengthen the resilience of the Netherlands.
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A key milestone in the partnership is the deployment of 6 KLM pilots as reservists with the Ministry of Defence, where they will serve as F-35 pilots in the Royal Netherlands Air Force. This fulfils last year’s agreement to offer KLM pilots the opportunity to actively contribute to military aviation.
The pilots will be given the flexibility to apply their knowledge and experience as reservists while continuing their careers in commercial aviation. This collaboration helps retain valuable aviation expertise within the Netherlands and further strengthens the connection between civil and military aviation.
In addition to the 6 reservists, one KLM pilot will be seconded to Texas from September for a four-year period as an instructor, training future fighter pilots.
KLM and the Ministry of Defence are also exploring opportunities to collaborate on alternative aviation fuels, specifically Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Particular focus is being placed on the development and application of e-SAF (synthetic sustainable aviation fuel), a key technology for further decarbonising aviation and strengthening the strategic energy independence of the Netherlands and Europe.
