A Career Without Limits
British Airways proudly connects Britain with the world and the world with Britain, a legacy built over a century of pioneering international air travel. This spirit of innovation and excellence is at the core of our operations, shared by our passengers, partners, and colleagues. As a British Airways pilot, you will continue to fly to exacting standards, representing an airline you will be proud to be a part of.
The Role: Direct Entry Pilot – Military Pathway
The customer is paramount in all that we do at British Airways. As a Direct Entry Pilot, your primary objective will be to deliver an unparalleled flight experience for every passenger. Your flying expertise will be recognized globally. This commercial pilot role is dynamic and presents daily challenges, requiring performance at the highest standards. Pilots will join either the short-haul Airbus fleet or, based on prior experience, one of our four long-haul fleets. Your career path is not fixed; with numerous opportunities beyond flying, such as training and future pilot recruitment, your career at British Airways is yours to shape. Beyond professional growth, you will benefit from a competitive reward and benefits package.
What You Will Bring to British Airways:
Your Experience:
Short-haul Fleet Requirements:
- Minimum of 500 hours of flying time on any military type.
- Ability to achieve an fATPL(A) and MCC (or exemption) by the joining date.
Long-haul Fleet Requirements:
- Minimum of 1,500 hours of military flying time, with at least 500 hours or 100 sectors completed on a ZFTT qualifying aircraft.
- Ability to achieve an unfrozen ATPL(A) and MCC (or exemption) by the joining date.
Additional Requirements:
- 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"). Applicants taller than 1.91m may be considered, subject to a functionality check to confirm seating position compatibility.
- Good physical fitness and the ability to meet British Airways medical requirements.
- ICAO English Language Proficiency level 6.
- A valid passport with at least 12 months remaining before expiry, permitting unrestricted worldwide travel.
- Tattoos are permitted if not visible on the hands, face, or head.
- UK CAA Class 1 flight crew medical (Military A1 status is acceptable for application; UK CAA Class 1 must be obtained before a job offer).
- Right to live and work in the UK.
- Meet the criteria of Qualified Military Pilot (QMP) as defined in CAP 2254.
- Have commenced ATPL ground school and be confident in completing and obtaining an fATPL(A) within 18 months of application.
Applications are welcomed from QMPs who have already transitioned or plan to transition from military service within the next 18 months. Successful candidates at the initial online and in-person assessment stages may receive a conditional job offer with a mutually agreed start date up to 12 months in advance. The offer will be contingent upon passing a simulator assessment, to be completed after licence issuance but no later than three months prior to the agreed start date.
Successful applicants will be provided with a company-funded type rating and will join British Airways on the Direct Entry Pilot pay scale. Opportunities for rapid progression to Short Haul command are available for candidates with relevant experience and aptitude.
Job offers may be extended for the A320, A350, A380, B777, or B787 fleets. B777 pilots operate from London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW). Preference will be given to candidates holding current ratings on the aircraft type. Transitions to other fleets will be managed through the internal fleet move system, based on seniority.
British Airways is an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and inclusion. The company does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. This job description outlines the essential scope, nature, and level of work for the role, but is not an exhaustive list of all qualifications, skills, duties, or responsibilities.
Important Notes:
- Candidates unsuccessful in initial screening, video interview, capacity testing, or the assessment centre may reapply for the pilot recruitment campaign six months after their last assessment date. Those unsuccessful at the simulator 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. Reapplication to any of these airlines after an unsuccessful campaign is subject to the specified re-application period.
- Long-haul suitability will be evaluated during the simulator assessment. Please note that long-haul positions are limited, with the A320 remaining the primary recruitment fleet.
- Successful candidates will enter a hold pool and may receive a maximum of two job offers. Declining a second offer will result in exiting the hold pool, requiring reapplication and a full re-selection process after 12 months.
What We Offer:
At British Airways, all employees are valued for their contributions. Our rewards extend beyond a competitive salary, offering a comprehensive package that supports your career and personal life.
- 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.
- Extensive worldwide staff travel benefits.
- Access to five different fleet types after an initial period.
- Life insurance benefits.
- Company-funded conversion course/type rating (non-bonded).
- Discounted airfares for friends and family.
- Discounts with selected car hire, hotel, and retail partners.
- A range of voluntary benefits for employees and their families.
- Private medical cover, technology scheme, Cycle to Work, and Electric/Plug-in Hybrid car scheme.
British Airways fosters an environment where individuals are encouraged to explore new challenges and progress in ways that align with their ambitions. We are committed to helping our people develop and advance across all areas of our business.
Inclusion & Diversity
British Airways recognizes and celebrates the unique individuality, creativity, and identity that each colleague brings to work. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to join us on our journey to become a Better BA.