British Airways Direct Entry Pilot – Military Pathway

Overview

British Airways invites experienced military pilots from the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Army Air Corps to explore an exciting career opportunity through its Military Pilot Pathway. This pathway offers a distinguished transition for those who have served their country, allowing them to continue flying to exacting standards as part of the nation's flag carrier, connecting Britain with the world. With over 100 years of heritage in aviation, British Airways prides itself on originality and ambition, offering a dynamic environment where the sky is truly the limit.

The Role

As a British Airways Direct Entry Pilot on the Military Pathway, the pilot is expected to uphold the highest standards of performance and customer focus. The core responsibility involves providing the very best flight experience for every passenger, ensuring world-class flying operations to destinations across the globe. This role offers daily challenges and rewards, transitioning military precision to commercial excellence.

Pilots will initially join either the short-haul Airbus fleet or, based on prior experience, one of the four long-haul fleets. British Airways offers significant career development opportunities beyond flying, including roles in training, recruitment, and operational management. This position includes access to a competitive reward package and comprehensive benefits.

What British Airways Looks For

British Airways seeks experienced and highly capable military pilots who meet the following criteria:

Experience and Qualifications:

Previous military (or equivalent) flying experience within the last 3 years (fixed wing or rotary).
Ability to achieve a fATPL(A) and MCC (or exemption) by the date of joining (for short-haul) or an unfrozen ATPL(A) and MCC (or exemption) by the date of joining (for long-haul).
Meet the criteria of QMP as defined in CAP 2254.
Must have started ATPL groundschool and be confident in completing and having the fATPL(A) issued within 18 months of application.

For Short-haul Fleet:

Minimum of 500 hours of flying time on any military type.

For 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.

General Requirements:

Height between 1.57m (5’2″) and 1.91m (6’3″). Candidates taller than 1.91m may apply but must pass a functionality check for seating position compatibility.
A good level of physical fitness, satisfying British Airways medical requirements.
ICAO English Language Proficiency level 6.
A valid passport with a minimum of 12 months before expiry at the 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. Military A1 status is acceptable at the point of application, but UK CAA Class 1 is required before a job offer is made.
Right to live and work in the UK.

Applications are welcome from Qualified Military Pilots (QMPs) who have already left or are planning to exit the military within the next 18 months. Successful candidates 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 suitably experienced and capable candidates. Job offers may be made for the A320, A350, A380, B777, or B787 fleets, with preference given to those holding a current rating on the aircraft type.

What British Airways Offers

British Airways values its colleagues and provides rewards that extend beyond a competitive salary:

Dynamic career path with opportunities for progression and diverse roles.
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, including unlimited basic and premium standby tickets.
Up to 30 discounted 'Hotline' airfares annually for self, friends, and family.
Greater choice of 5 different fleet types (after initial freeze).
Life insurance benefits.
Company-funded conversion course/type rating (not bonded).
Unlimited discounted airfares for your friends and family.
Discounts at selected car hire, hotels, and retail stores.
A range of voluntary benefits for self and family members.
Private medical cover, dental and critical illness cover, technology scheme, Cycle to Work, and Electric/Plug-in Hybrid car scheme.

Inclusion & Diversity

British Airways recognises the unique contributions of all colleagues, valuing their originality, creativity, and identity. The airline encourages applications from all backgrounds as part of its journey to become a Better BA, fostering an environment that embraces diversity.