British Airways offers an exciting career pathway for experienced pilots transitioning from the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Army Air Corps. This is a unique opportunity to continue flying to exacting standards while representing the nation's flag carrier.
As the nation's flag carrier, British Airways connects Britain with the world, a service it has proudly provided for over a century. It fosters a spirit of originality, shared by its employees, partners, and passengers. At British Airways, every role contributes to a world-class operation, and the company inspires its employees to think big and bring their ambition to work every day, fostering an environment where the sky is never the limit.
The Direct Entry Pilot will ensure the delivery of the best possible flight experience for each passenger, adhering to the highest standards of safety and professionalism. The role involves operating within either the short-haul Airbus fleet or one of the long-haul fleets (dependent upon experience). British Airways prioritizes work-life balance and offers a variety of career development opportunities beyond flying, including training and recruitment. Successful candidates will benefit from a competitive reward and benefits package.
Applications are welcomed from QMPs who have already left or are looking to exit the military within the next 18 months. Successful applicants 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, completed after license 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. Fast-track opportunities 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 (B777 pilots operate out of LHR and LGW). Preference will be given to those that hold a current rating on the aircraft type. Moves to other fleets will be processed via the internal fleet move system and awarded on a seniority basis.
British Airways is an equal opportunities employer, valuing diversity and not discriminating based on race, religion, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Candidates unsuccessful at initial screening, video interview, capacity testing, or assessment center stage can reapply after 6 months. Candidates unsuccessful at the SIM stage must wait 12 months before reapplying.
Applicants may only apply to one airline within the British Airways family (British Airways, Euroflyer, or Cityflyer) at a time. If unsuccessful, the applicant must wait until the specified re-apply period has elapsed before applying to any of the three airlines.
Long-haul suitability will be assessed during the simulator assessment. A320 remains the primary recruiting fleet.
Successful candidates will enter a hold pool, receiving a maximum of 2 job offers. Declining a second job offer will result in removal from the hold pool, requiring reapplication after 12 months and completion of the entire selection process again.
British Airways values its employees and provides rewards beyond a competitive salary. Benefits include:
British Airways encourages employees to pursue new challenges and move forward in their careers. The company never stands still and expects the same of its people.