Military Pilot Pathway – Direct Entry Pilot
British Airways, the nation's flag carrier, invites experienced pilots from the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Army Air Corps to transition into a commercial flying career. This pathway offers military personnel the opportunity to continue flying to exacting standards while contributing to a globally connected air service.
The Role
As a Direct Entry Pilot, the primary goal is to provide a world-class flight experience for all passengers. Pilots will operate within either the short-haul Airbus fleet or long-haul fleets, depending on experience. This position offers a dynamic career path with opportunities for development in areas such as training and pilot recruitment, supported by a competitive reward and benefits package.
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 1500 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 Qualifications
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Previous 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 exceeding 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 for initial application).
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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.
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Right to live and work in the UK.
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Compliance with QMP criteria as defined in CAP 2254.
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Possession of, or progress toward, fATPL(A) issuance within 18 months of application.
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Tattoos must not be visible on the hands, face, or head.
Application Process
Applications are open to Qualified Military Pilots (QMPs) who have left or intend to exit the military within the next 18 months. The selection process includes an online assessment, an in-person assessment, and a simulator assessment. Successful candidates enter a hold pool and will receive a company-funded type rating.
Benefits
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Company-funded type rating/conversion course (not bonded).
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Competitive salary on the Direct Entry Pilot payscale.
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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.
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Private medical cover, life insurance, and technology/cycle-to-work schemes.
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Varied roster patterns and opportunities for fleet progression.
Inclusion and Diversity
British Airways is an equal opportunities employer. The company values diversity and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.