Global K9 selected by KLM to provide canine cargo screening

Global K9 (GK9) has been appointed by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KLM) to provide free running explosive detection dogs (FREDDs) at the airline’s hub, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS).

A total of four canine teams have been stationed at AMS, where they will support KLM Cargo’s screening operations in compliance with EU and Dutch regulatory frameworks.

“We’ve been working closely with KLM’s compliance and safety team to develop a screening model that can seamlessly integrate within its cargo operations,” said Chris Daniels, Chief Commercial Officer, GK9.

“Consolidated FREDD teams is a preferred screening option for high-throughput cargo environments such as KLM Cargo at Schiphol, and a necessary step in bolstering security at one of Europe’s busiest cargo hubs.”

The agreement marks GK9’s first airline partnership in Europe.

“Our operations at Schiphol demand screening methods that can adapt to constant movement,” said Kester Meijer, Director Operational Integrity, Compliance & Safety, KLM Cargo.

“GK9’s FREDD teams offer the mobility and responsiveness needed to do this at scale, without interrupting cargo flows, and, more importantly, maintaining high security standards.”

The partnership also includes further training in Remote Explosive Scent Tracing (REST), using air sampling and canine detection to identify explosive traces in sealed or consolidated cargo without disrupting handling.

GK9 currently works with seven airlines across the US: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, DHL Aviation, LATAM Airlines, Lufthansa, United Airlines, and UPS Airlines.

This latest agreement builds on GK9’s European expansion strategy, following a strategic partnership with a Dutch screening provider, and the acquisition of a UK-based canine training company in late 2024.

The announcement was made at this year’s Aviation Connect event, held in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 14-16th October.