I’ve been working at the KLM for over a week now, and it’s been good. The last couple of days I was linked to more experienced employees, who looked after me while I was working. I could also ask questions to them, because I can’t afford to make any mistakes: Safety first.

At seven o’clock my working day begins, waiting in the canteen until they declare the names of the next team. One team, existing out of 4 or more people, handle an aircraft. I’m working at the D-pier where all kinds of aircraft are situated. This means I’ve already handled Boeing 737′s, Boeing 777′s, Boeing 747′s, and Airbus A330′s. The last three of those, are mainly loaded with containers and pallets, except for the crew baggage and remaining cargo which go in the bulk cargo hold.

The first time I had to go in to the bulk hold of an wide body aircraft, I wasn’t very sure about doing it. It’s located at the rear side of the aircraft, at a height of four meters. I have a bit of a fear of heights, and it makes it even more difficult because you have to walk up a mobile conveyor belt. I decided to try it and although getting out the hold will never be my favorite thing to do, I have no problems with it anymore. It seems that I have overcome my fears.

Airbus A330 with conveyor to bulk hold

All of the containers are loaded by high loaders and main deck loaders, which will gently roll the container into the aircraft, and after that the driver can move them to the left or the right side by a small joystick. The floor of the aircraft is equipped will small wheels, rails and locks, to make easy and safe transport possible. During one day I approximately handle 4 or 5 aircraft, depending on how busy it is.