KLM Starts Construction of Its New Training Center “The Link”
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has taken a strategic step towards the future with the start of construction on “The Link,” an innovative pilot training center. The groundbreaking ceremony was led by Bas Brouns, CFO of the airline, marking the beginning of an ambitious expansion project set to be operational by mid-2026.
A State-of-the-Art Training Center
Located in Schiphol-Oost, adjacent to buildings 203 and 204, “The Link” will be a four-story complex with a total area of 4,442 m². The facility will house five cutting-edge flight simulators, designed for the training of KLM and Transavia pilots. This expansion of the Crew Training Center responds to the growing demand for flights and the need to increase the airline’s training capacity.
Growth and Training Needs
The surge in air travel and the importance of maintaining strong international connections have driven KLM to project a significant increase in its pilot workforce. Currently, the airline employs over 3,000 pilots, and this number is expected to rise to 4,000 in the coming years. To accommodate this expansion, the company has decided to enhance its training capabilities, ensuring optimal control over the quality and continuity of training.
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“The Link”: A Tribute to the History of Flight Simulation
The name “The Link” pays homage to the Link Trainer, the first flight simulator used nearly a century ago. The ground floor of the building will feature a 1,100 m² area with a reinforced base for the installation of the simulators. These devices will enable the airline’s cargo and passenger pilots to train on state-of-the-art aircraft, such as the Airbus A321neo and the Airbus A350.
The upper floors of the center will be equipped with instructional classrooms, technical rooms, and a high-voltage room responsible for supplying power to the entire Crew Training Center.
Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Construction
KLM has selected SPIE, a multi-technical services provider, as the main contractor for the construction of “The Link.” Supervision will be carried out by KLM Real Estate & Facility Contracting, in collaboration with Flight Operations.
To minimize environmental and structural impact, DPA piles will be used in the foundation, significantly reducing vibrations in the existing simulators and the Operations Control Center of adjacent buildings.
The design of “The Link” complies with sustainable and energy-efficient building standards, classifying it as a Near Energy Neutral Building. The structure will be gas-free, incorporating heat pumps for heating and solar panels on the roof to cover part of the electricity supply. Additionally, it will feature a sedum roof, which will improve insulation and optimize water retention.
With “The Link,” KLM reinforces its commitment to excellence in pilot training and sustainability in aviation. This strategic investment not only ensures the preparedness of its crews to face the challenges of the industry but also drives the growth and modernization of the company.
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