KLM has performed a pioneering role in international aviation since its establishment in 1919. Its resourceful, customer-oriented and reliable employees form the strong foundations that have made this possible. These same human qualities make KLM stand out today as a leader in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

Smart leader

With its partner Air France, KLM is pursuing an ambitious policy in this field for the benefit of customers, employees, society, and the environment. KLM is striving to become a Corporate Social Responsibility smart leader in the airline sector and to set an example to others; a visionary, innovative, contemporary leader, committed from the heart to people and the environment. A leader that is aware of the fact that it is regularly confronted with fundamental challenges, for example, whether to fly directly to an airport, out of concern for the environment, or to take a longer route to reduce noise nuisance for local residents. In order to come up with the best possible interpretation of Corporate Social Responsibility, KLM is in constant dialogue with interested parties at all levels, in a range of contexts, regionally, nationally, and internationally.

Taking the lead in CSR

KLM regards it as its duty to operate in a sustainable manner. Especially because it flies around the whole world, coming into contact with the living conditions of less fortunate people. KLM also realizes that its operation has an impact on living conditions and the environment . This is why, as a global company, KLM is not purely concerned with healthy economic growth, but also with making a genuine contribution to society, both at home and abroad. This contribution is made in a number of ways, for instance, through KLM's charitable program AirCares , which provides both financial and practical support for projects that help children in developing countries.

Caring for passengers and employees

Caring for passengers is expressed in optimal health and safety conditions and flight comfort. This also applies to other customers, for instance, those who transport freight or animals with KLM. As a major employer, KLM aims for sustainability and flexibility in its staff and to provide them with a safe and healthy work environment.
KLM's employees are also socially committed, with many of them working on charitable projects. One such initiative by flight and ground personnel is Wings of Support. More than 300 projects around the world have already been set up through this initiative, from building a school and supporting an AIDS clinic in Africa, to founding a youth football team in Brazil.

Universal principles

KLM's Corporate Social Responsibility policy conforms to the universal principles laid out in the United Nations Global Impact initiative of 1999. By putting its signature to this global agreement, KLM also committed itself to complying with a set of core values in the areas of human rights, labor standards, the environment, and anti-corruption. The United Nations' Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) also provide guiding principles for KLM policy. One of these goals states that more people should being living in a sustainable environment by 2015.

Ethical and honest conduct

KLM also practices a code of conduct for its executives and employees, which prioritizes ethically responsible and honest conduct. For KLM, verifiable and transparent accountability is the key to good management and a sustainable operation. KLM is also cooperating on the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which aims to reduce global warming.