12 June 2025

British Airways | A320 Military Pilot

Heathrow, England, United Kingdom

British Airways Direct Entry Pilot – Military Pathway

Overview

The Military Pilot Pathway presents an exceptional career opportunity for seasoned pilots transitioning from the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Army Air Corps. British Airways offers military experienced aviators a chance to continue their flying careers to exacting standards within a world-class commercial airline environment. Joining British Airways after serving one's country is a distinguished step, allowing pilots to wear a uniform with pride while connecting Britain with the world.

For over 100 years, British Airways has been the nation's flag carrier, synonymous with connecting people and places. This pioneering spirit, evident since launching the world's first international scheduled air service, is inherent in the company culture. British Airways values ambition and inspires its people to think big, where the sky is never the limit.

The Role

As a British Airways Direct Entry Pilot via the Military Pathway, the primary objective is to provide passengers with the highest standard of flight experience. Pilots are expected to perform to world-class standards every day, embracing the challenge and excitement of commercial aviation.

Successful candidates will initially join either the short-haul Airbus fleet or, based on previous experience, one of the four long-haul fleets. Career progression within British Airways is dynamic and not strictly defined. Beyond flying, numerous opportunities exist, including roles in training, recruitment, and other areas of the business, providing variety and career development. Pilots will receive access to a competitive reward and benefits package.

Candidate Requirements

To be considered for the Military Pilot Pathway, candidates must demonstrate suitability based on the following criteria:

Experience:

  • Short-haul Fleet:
    • Minimum of 500 hours of flying time on any military aircraft type.
    • Ability to achieve a frozen ATPL(A) (fATPL(A)) and MCC (or exemption) by the date of joining.
  • Long-haul Fleets:
    • Minimum of 1500 hours of military flying time, of which 500 hours or 100 sectors must be completed on a ZFTT qualifying aircraft.
    • Ability to achieve an unfrozen ATPL(A) and MCC (or exemption) by the date of joining.

Plus:

  • Previous military (or equivalent) flying experience within the last 3 years (fixed wing or rotary).
  • Height between 1.57m (5’2″) and 1.91m (6’3″). Candidates taller than 1.91m may apply but must pass a functionality check confirming suitability for aircraft seating positions.
  • A good level of physical fitness, meeting British Airways medical requirements.
  • ICAO English Language Proficiency level 6.
  • A valid passport (with minimum 12 months validity at time of joining) allowing unrestricted worldwide travel.
  • Tattoos are permissible provided they are not on the hands, face, or head.
  • Possession of a UK CAA Class 1 flight crew medical certificate. Military A1 status is acceptable at application but UK CAA Class 1 is required before a job offer is made.
  • Right to live and work in the UK.
  • Meeting the criteria of Qualified Military Pilot (QMP) as defined in CAP 2254.
  • Commencement of ATPL groundschool, with confidence in completing and receiving fATPL(A) within 18 months of application.

Applications are invited from QMPs who have already left or anticipate leaving the military within the next 18 months. Successful candidates at Stage 1 (online assessment) and Stage 2 (in-person assessment) may receive a conditional job offer with a mutually agreed start date up to 12 months in advance. The job offer is conditional upon passing a simulator assessment, which must be completed after licence issuance but no later than 3 months before the agreed start date.

Successful applicants will receive a company-funded type rating and join British Airways on the Direct Entry Pilot payscale. Opportunities for a fast track to Short Haul command are available for candidates with suitable experience and aptitude.

Job offers may be made for the A320, A350, A380, B777 or B787 fleets (B777 pilots operate from LHR and LGW). Preference may be given to candidates holding a current rating on the aircraft type. Transitions to other fleets are processed via the internal fleet move system and awarded based on seniority.

British Airways is an equal opportunities employer and values diversity. The company does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. This job description outlines the scope and nature of the role but is not exhaustive of all qualifications, skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions.

Please note:

Candidates unsuccessful at initial screening, video interview, capacity testing, or assessment centre must wait 6 months before reapplying for the pilot recruitment campaign. Candidates unsuccessful at the SIM stage must wait 12 months before reapplying. Candidates may only apply to one airline within the British Airways family (British Airways, Euroflyer, or Cityflyer) concurrently. Failure in one campaign requires waiting the specified re-apply period before applying to any of the three airlines. Long-haul suitability is assessed during the simulator assessment; however, A320 remains the primary recruiting fleet due to limited long-haul positions. Successful candidates enter a hold pool and may receive a maximum of 2 job offers. Declining a second job offer results in exiting the hold pool and requiring reapplication and completion of the full selection process after 12 months.

What British Airways Offers

British Airways values its colleagues and recognises their contributions. The reward package extends beyond a competitive salary, offering extensive benefits:

  • Dynamic Career Path with opportunities for advancement.
  • Varied Roster Patterns including night stops, day trips, and tours.
  • Company pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
  • Eligibility for extensive British Airways worldwide staff travel benefits from day one, including unlimited basic and premium standby tickets.
  • Up to 30 discounted ‘Hotline’ airfares annually for the pilot, friends, and family.
  • Opportunity to transition to a greater choice of 5 different fleet types (after the initial fleet freeze period).
  • Life insurance benefits.
  • Company funded conversion course/type rating (not bonded).
  • Discounts at selected car hire, hotels, and retail stores.
  • A range of voluntary benefits for pilots and family members.
  • Private medical cover, technology scheme, Cycle to Work, and Electric/Plug-in Hybrid car schemes.

Inclusion & Diversity

British Airways recognises the unique individuality, originality, creativity, and identity that colleagues bring to the workplace. The company actively encourages people from all backgrounds to join its journey to become a Better BA, fostering an inclusive and diverse environment.

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