Direct Entry Pilot – Military Pathway
British Airways invites experienced pilots from the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Army Air Corps to join our team as a Direct Entry Pilot via our dedicated Military Pathway. As the nation’s flag carrier, British Airways provides a professional environment where pilots can transition their skills to commercial aviation and contribute to our global operations.
Role Overview
Successful candidates will focus on delivering a world-class flight experience to our customers. Pilots will join either our short-haul Airbus fleet or one of our four long-haul fleets, depending on previous experience. This position offers a dynamic career path with opportunities for professional development, training, and fleet progression. British Airways provides a company-funded type rating for successful applicants.
Candidate Requirements
Short-Haul Fleet
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Minimum of 500 hours of flying time on any military type.
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Ability to achieve a fATPL(A) and MCC (or exemption) by date of joining.
Long-Haul Fleets
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Minimum of 1,500 hours of military flying time, including 500 hours or 100 sectors on a ZFTT qualifying aircraft.
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Ability to achieve an unfrozen ATPL(A) and MCC (or exemption) by date of joining.
General Criteria
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Military (or equivalent) flying experience within the last 3 years (fixed wing or rotary).
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Height between 1.57m (5’2”) and 1.91m (6’3”). (Applicants taller than 1.91m are subject to a functionality check).
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Good level of physical fitness and ability to meet British Airways medical standards.
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UK CAA Class 1 flight crew medical (Military A1 status acceptable at application; UK CAA Class 1 required prior to job offer).
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ICAO English Language Proficiency level 6.
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Valid passport with at least 12 months remaining at time of joining, allowing unrestricted worldwide travel.
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Right to live and work in the UK.
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Must meet QMP criteria as defined in CAP 2254.
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Started ATPL groundschool with the ability to have fATPL(A) issued within 18 months of application.
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Tattoos are permitted provided they are not on the face, head, or hands.
Professional Benefits
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Competitive salary on the Direct Entry Pilot payscale.
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Company-funded conversion course/type rating (non-bonded).
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Company pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
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Extensive worldwide staff travel benefits, including unlimited standby tickets.
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Discounted airfares for friends and family, including 'Hotline' fares.
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Private medical cover.
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Access to technology schemes, Cycle to Work, and electric vehicle programs.
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Discounts on retail, hotels, and car hire.
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Varied roster patterns and long-term career progression opportunities.
Application Information
Applications are open to Qualified Military Pilots (QMPs) who have left or are exiting the military within 18 months. The selection process includes an online assessment, in-person assessment, and a simulator assessment. Candidates may only apply to one airline within the British Airways family at a time. Re-application cooling-off periods apply for unsuccessful candidates (6 months for assessment stages; 12 months for simulator stage).
British Airways is an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.