11 October 2025

British Airways | A320 Military Pilot

United Kingdom

British Airways Direct Entry Pilot: Military Pilot Pathway

British Airways (BA), the nation's flag carrier, invites highly experienced military aviators to apply for the prestigious Direct Entry Pilot – Military Pathway. This exceptional career transition is designed for seasoned pilots exiting the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Army Air Corps (QMPs), offering a seamless transition to commercial aviation while maintaining world-class professional standards.

A Global Career with Limitless Potential

As a global aviation leader connecting Britain with the world for over 100 years, British Airways values the originality, discipline, and ambition that military service instills. Pilots joining British Airways are crucial to maintaining the airline’s legacy of excellence, delivering exceptional flight experiences, and supporting operational integrity across the globe. At British Airways, professional development is prioritised, ensuring that the sky is truly never the limit for career advancement.

The Role: Direct Entry Pilot

The Direct Entry Pilot operating via the Military Pathway is responsible for delivering the highest standards of safety and customer experience across the global network. This challenging role demands consistent, world-class performance within a dynamic commercial environment. Successful candidates may join the Short-haul Airbus fleet or, dependent upon relevant experience, one of the four Long-haul fleets (A350, A380, B777, B787).

Beyond the flight deck, British Airways offers extensive non-flying roles, including pilot training and future pilot recruitment, providing diverse opportunities for career progression and lifestyle management.

Candidate Requirements and Experience

The applicant must be able to satisfy the rigorous criteria for either the Short-haul or Long-haul fleets:

Short-haul Fleet Requirements

Long-haul Fleet Requirements

General Requirements (Applicable to All Military Pathway Applicants)

Application and Recruitment Process

Applications are welcomed from Qualified Military Pilots who have already left service or are planning to exit the military within the next 18 months. Successful applicants will receive a company-funded, unbonded type rating and will commence employment on the competitive Direct Entry Pilot payscale. Opportunities for fast-track command progression on the Short-haul fleet are available for suitable candidates.

Job offers may be issued for the A320, A350, A380, B777, or B787 fleets (B777 pilots operate from LHR and LGW). Preference may be given to applicants holding a current type rating on the assigned aircraft. While long-haul suitability will be assessed during the simulator stage, the A320 Short-haul fleet remains the primary recruiting focus due to limited long-haul vacancies.

Application Guidelines and Restrictions

Reward and Benefits Package

British Airways is committed to rewarding its employees with a comprehensive package that extends significantly beyond a competitive salary. The benefits package is designed to support the dynamic professional life of a commercial pilot.

Inclusion & Diversity

British Airways values diversity and originality, recognising that colleagues from all backgrounds contribute uniquely to the journey of becoming a 'Better BA'. The airline is an equal opportunities employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.

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