British Airways is seeking dedicated and experienced aviation professionals to join its team as Direct Entry Pilots, serving as a Boeing 787 First Officer. The airline places the customer at the heart of its operations, and the primary goal for this role is to deliver an exceptional flight experience for every passenger, ensuring world-class flying standards are consistently met. The dynamic life of a commercial pilot presents daily challenges, requiring performance to the highest possible standards.
A career as a pilot with British Airways offers unparalleled opportunities for growth. Beyond flying, there is a wide variety of roles available, including positions in training and pilot recruitment. All British Airways pilots participate in an annual bid process, allowing them to express preferences for different fleets and Command positions, providing influence over their career trajectory and lifestyle. The airline is committed to supporting career development and offers a comprehensive and competitive reward and benefits package.
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
It is critical for consideration that applicants are actively flying the Boeing 787 exclusively. Pilots licensed on both Boeing 777/787 but only currently operating the Boeing 777 are not eligible for this specific opportunity.
Job offers will primarily be for the Boeing 787 fleet. British Airways aims for a long-term strategy of operating a single Boeing fleet comprising Boeing 777, 777X, and 787 aircraft. Transfers to other fleets are managed through the internal fleet move system and awarded based on seniority. Offers for the Boeing 777 may be extended if the number of successful applicants exceeds the available 787 positions.
British Airways is an equal opportunities employer, valuing diversity and not discriminating based on race, religion, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability. This description outlines the essential scope and nature of the role; however, it is not an exhaustive list of all potential qualifications, skills, duties, or working conditions.
Candidates who were unsuccessful at the initial screening, video interview, capacity testing, or assessment centre stages are eligible to reapply for a pilot recruitment campaign after a period of 6 months from their last assessment date. Candidates unsuccessful at the simulator stage must wait 12 months before reapplying. Applicants are permitted to apply to only one airline within the British Airways family (British Airways, Euroflyer, or Cityflyer) at any given time. Failure in one campaign necessitates waiting until the specified re-application period has passed before applying to any of the three airlines. Successful candidates will be placed in a hold pool and will receive a maximum of two job offers. Refusal of a second job offer will result in exiting the hold pool, requiring reapplication after 12 months and completion of the full selection process again.
British Airways values the contributions of all colleagues, offering a rewards package that extends beyond a competitive salary. From commencement of employment, pilots gain access to attractive staff travel benefits, including unlimited basic and premium standby tickets on British Airways flights. Additionally, up to 30 discounted ‘Hotline’ airfares per year are available for the employee, friends, and family.
The airline encourages continuous development, providing opportunities to take on new challenges and progress across the business. The environment is dynamic, and professional growth is actively supported.
Benefits include:
British Airways celebrates the uniqueness of each colleague, recognising the originality, creativity, and identity they bring to the workplace. The airline actively encourages individuals from all backgrounds to join its journey towards becoming a Better BA.