Returning to work with confidence: KLM applies VR in reintegration

 

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has developed a programme that allows cabin crew to experience what it is like to return to work after a longer period of absence through the use of virtual reality. In this way, KLM wants to lower the threshold to returning to work after a longer period of absence, such as after illness or maternity leave. After a successful trial period, KLM will start using the VR glasses in the reintegration programme from 1 October. This makes KLM the first major organisation in the Netherlands to use virtual reality in the reintegration process.

In the virtual reality environment, the employee starts at home and then goes through a working day step by step: from handing in the luggage at the crew centre to the actual take-off of the aircraft, the work on board and the arrival at the hotel. The test shows that the VR glasses give colleagues more self-confidence and motivation to get back to work. The VR application is also used to investigate whether someone is really ready to go back to work, because it provides insight into whether and where the colleague gets stuck in the reintegration process. This helps with targeted treatment.

“ We notice that some colleagues are nervous about going back to work after not flying for a long time. At an altitude of 10,000 feet you can’t really say: “I am struggling to do this, I think I will go home a bit earlier.” With the VR glasses we lower that threshold by bringing the flying world “to the ground” in a very realistic way. At the same time, it is also a diagnostic tool: by using the glasses we can identify where colleagues are getting stuck in their reintegration. This means that we can work together with the colleague to find a solution to tackle the issue the colleague is facing. It brings technology and people together in a practical and responsible way.

Marion Leguijt, head of cabin crew at KLM

„In addition to the fact that the VR glasses help to take the step to return to work earlier, it also appears that it contributes to sustainable employability. By enabling a targeted approach and gaining more self-confidence, colleagues are less likely to drop out again. The programme currently targets colleagues who work in the cabin, but KLM wants to expand the programme to make it more widely available.

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I was unable to work for a longer period of time and noticed that the threshold to return to work became increasingly higher. By using the VR glasses, it became apparent that arriving in my hotel room was a stumbling block for me. For me, that was really the moment when I felt alone and that made me anxious. I tackled this together with the psychologist and regained my confidence in myself.

Bouchra Echtaibi, cabin attendant at KLM

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KLM is continuously working on improving products and processes. Pioneering the use of VR glasses in the reintegration process therefore fits in well with the innovative character of the company.

Tags:  KLM Royal Dutch Airlines