British Airways | A320 Military Pilot

British Airways Direct Entry Pilot – Military Pathway

British Airways, the nation's flag carrier, offers a compelling career opportunity for experienced pilots transitioning from the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Army Air Corps. This prestigious pathway allows former servicemen and women to leverage their exceptional flying skills and continue their aviation careers with a leading global airline, donning a uniform they will wear with pride.

This is a role for those seeking unlimited opportunities. British Airways boasts a rich history of connecting Britain to the world, a legacy built on innovation and a commitment to excellence. This same spirit of originality permeates every aspect of the company, from ground operations to in-flight service, fostering a collaborative and rewarding environment for its employees.

The Role: British Airways Direct Entry Pilot – Military Pathway

The core focus of this role is delivering an unparalleled passenger experience. Pilots will be responsible for conducting world-class flights, operating within the highest safety and operational standards, and facing daily challenges that demand peak performance. Whether assigned to our short-haul Airbus fleet or (depending on experience) one of our four long-haul fleets, career progression is not predetermined. British Airways prioritizes work-life balance, offering diverse opportunities beyond flying, including training and pilot recruitment, providing ample avenues for professional development. Further, a comprehensive reward and benefits package is provided.

Essential Requirements:

Short-haul Fleet:

• Minimum 500 hours of military flying time on any aircraft type.
• Ability to obtain a frozen ATPL(A) and MCC (or exemption) by the start date.

Long-haul Fleets:

• Minimum 1500 hours of military flying time, including 500 hours or 100 sectors on a ZFTT qualifying aircraft.
• Ability to obtain an unfrozen ATPL(A) and MCC (or exemption) by the start date.

Additional Requirements:

• Previous military (or equivalent) fixed-wing or rotary-wing flying experience within the last three years.
• Height between 1.57m (5'2") and 1.91m (6'3"). Individuals exceeding 1.91m may apply but will require a functionality check to confirm suitability for aircraft seating.
• Excellent physical fitness and ability to meet British Airways' medical requirements.
• ICAO English Language Proficiency level 6.
• Valid passport (minimum 12 months validity remaining at time of joining) allowing unrestricted worldwide travel.
• Tattoos permissible except on hands, face, or head.
• UK CAA Class 1 flight crew medical (Military A1 status acceptable at application, but UK CAA Class 1 required before a job offer).
• Right to live and work in the UK.
• Meet the criteria of QMP as defined in CAP 2254.
• Commenced ATPL ground school and confident of fATPL(A) completion and issuance within 18 months of application.

Applications are welcome from Qualified Military Pilots (QMPs) who have left or intend to leave the military within the next 18 months. Conditional job offers, with mutually agreed start dates up to 12 months in advance, may be made to candidates successful in Stages 1 (online assessment) and 2 (in-person assessment). Offers are contingent upon successful completion of a simulator assessment (post-licence issuance, but no later than three months before the start date).

Successful applicants will receive company-funded type ratings and commence on the Direct Entry Pilot payscale. A fast-track to short-haul command is available for suitable candidates. Job offers may be for the A320, A350, A380, B777, or B787 (B777 pilots based at LHR and LGW). Preference will be given to those with current ratings on the specified aircraft types. Fleet transfers are subject to internal processes and seniority.

British Airways is an equal opportunities employer and values diversity. This description provides an overview of the role; it is not exhaustive.

Benefits:

• Dynamic career paths
• Varied roster patterns
• Company pension scheme (up to 15% employer contribution)
• Extensive British Airways worldwide staff travel
• Choice of five fleet types (post-initial period)
• Life insurance
• Company-funded type rating (unbonded)
• Discounted airfares for friends and family
• Discounts at various retailers
• Voluntary benefits for employees and families
• Private medical, dental, and critical illness cover, technology scheme, Cycle to Work and Electric/Plug-in Hybrid car scheme

British Airways champions inclusivity and diversity, encouraging applications from all backgrounds.