adancau

Had something rather similar at ARN when we got stuck for a couple of hours due to weather in AMS. Pilot announcement made in front of the cabin, and possibility to come take a peek at the cockpit, which I gladly took. It was not a one off event, we've had delayed boarding at ARN resulting in the captain addressing all of us directly at the gate, explaining the situation, apologizing for the delay and later keeping us up to date about things. I mostly fly KL in J inside Europe, and even if I'm not that impressed with their food and beverage selection, I've always found them reliable, especially when issues arise (missed connections, delayed luggage). It's hard for me to compare though, as besides AF I haven't been in J on any other airline.

johan rebel

Can't recall the specifics, but KL management came up with a plan a year or so ago to encourage flight crew to play a more active and passenger focused role in general.

There's also a trial that has been going on for ages where flight and cabin crew stay together on the same flights for an entire shift, which is not the case now.

Johan