A career without limits
As the nation’s flag carrier, British Airways proudly connects Britain with the world and the world with Britain, a legacy upheld for over 100 years since launching the world’s first international scheduled air service. This pioneering spirit defines the airline and is shared with its customers, partners, and colleagues. At British Airways, individuals are empowered to shape their careers, and the ambition to think big is encouraged, ensuring the sky is never the limit.
British Airways Direct Entry Pilot – First Officer (Long Haul Fleets)
British Airways is seeking skilled and experienced Direct Entry Pilots to join its Long Haul fleets as First Officers. The role places the customer at the forefront, with a primary goal of providing an exceptional flight experience for every passenger. Pilots operate to the highest standards, navigating diverse routes with world-class professionalism. The commercial pilot lifestyle with British Airways offers daily challenges and dynamic career progression. Starting on one of four long-haul fleets, pilots have the opportunity to transfer to other long-haul fleets or the short-haul fleet to pursue command. British Airways values work-life balance and offers numerous opportunities beyond flying, including roles in training and recruitment. Successful candidates will benefit from continuous career development alongside a competitive reward and benefits package.
Applicants must possess the necessary qualifications and meet the minimum criteria to be considered for a Direct Entry Pilot position:
Your experience:
Minimum criteria to apply:
Pilots holding an EASA licence who previously held a UK Part-FCL licence are requested to provide a copy of their previous UK licence or proof of completing training in the UK resulting in a UK licence award in the supporting files section of their application.
Job offers will predominantly be made for positions on the Airbus A320 and Boeing 777 fleets. Boeing 777 pilots operate services from both London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW), and will also operate the Boeing 777X upon its entry into service. A limited number of vacancies may exist on other fleets, with preference given to candidates holding a current type rating on the respective aircraft. Fleet transfers after the initial assignment freeze are managed through the internal fleet move system based on seniority.
For Boeing 777 LGW flights, hotel accommodation can be requested and provided the day before duty and a day room after landing, if the flight duty period exceeds 8 hours and is not a positioning sector.
Candidates who are not successful at the initial screening, video interview, capacity testing, or assessment centre stages may reapply for the pilot recruitment campaign after a period of 6 months from their most recent assessment date. Candidates who are unsuccessful at the simulator assessment stage must wait 12 months before reapplying.
Applicants may only apply to one airline within the British Airways family (British Airways, Euroflyer, or Cityflyer) concurrently. Unsuccessful candidates must adhere to the specified re-apply period before applying to any of the three airlines. Long-haul suitability is assessed during the simulator assessment. Please note, given the limited number of long-haul positions, the A320 fleet remains the primary recruiting fleet.
Successful candidates are placed into a hold pool. Candidates in the hold pool will receive a maximum of two job offers. If a candidate declines their second job offer, they will exit the hold pool and be required to reapply after 12 months, completing the entire selection process anew.
British Airways values its colleagues and offers a comprehensive reward package that extends beyond a competitive salary. From the commencement of employment, pilots gain access to extensive staff travel benefits, including unlimited basic and premium standby tickets on British Airways flights, plus up to 30 discounted ‘Hotline’ airfares annually for themselves, friends, and family.
British Airways encourages continuous development, offering opportunities for new challenges and progression across the business. The dynamic environment supports professional growth, ensuring colleagues can move forward in ways that align with their aspirations.
Key benefits include:
British Airways celebrates the unique qualities, originality, creativity, and identity that each colleague brings to the workplace. The airline is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and encourages individuals from all backgrounds to join its journey towards becoming a Better B.