KLM Airlines: Airline updates uniform policy to allow cabin crew and pilots to wear trainers as it is more 'in line with current times'

Airline KLM has updated its uniform policy to allow cabin crew and pilots to wear trainers instead of the traditional court shoes. The Dutch carrier announced that the policy would be implemented from 6 May.

The carrier said that employees will be able to either choose their own trainers (providing they meet certain criteria), or they can opt to purchase ones designed specifically for the airline by Amsterdam-based Filling Pieces. KLM said that a pilot programme carried out during the past year showed that wearing trainers “contributes to employee well-being”, and added that the practice “is becoming more common among airlines and is in line with current times”.

The airline quoted senior purser, Willeke van den Boomgaard as stating: “In the past year, I have been able to test sneakers as a sustainable part of my uniform. After years of the classic look of pumps, I now wear sneakers with great pleasure! They give me a good start towards a good flight!”.

A post on X, formerly Twitter, said that this policy will be allowed “for the first time in the airline's 104-year history”, adding a photo of the branded trainers that its employees can wear.  

A spokesperson for the airline said: “By allowing sneakers, KLM is responding to the demand for more comfortable work shoes. Some colleagues who wear pumps would like an alternative. Wearing sneakers under a uniform is becoming more common among airlines and is in line with current times.”