Virgin Atlantic | First Officer

Pilot / First Officer / Senior First Officer

Virgin Atlantic invites applications for experienced Pilots, including First Officer and Senior First Officer roles, to join its long-haul operations based at London Heathrow. As the UK's exclusively long-haul airline, Virgin Atlantic offers pilots the unique opportunity to operate technologically advanced Boeing 787 aircraft to glamorous destinations worldwide, enjoying unparalleled office views.

Role Overview

Pilots at Virgin Atlantic are expected to demonstrate exceptional aircraft handling ability, extensive procedural and technical knowledge, strong leadership, and outstanding human factors skills. Successful candidates will possess the passion and drive necessary for future command opportunities within the airline.

Responsibilities

Operating pilots are entrusted with delivering an exceptional journey for customers, maintaining consistent operational excellence while upholding the airline's high safety standards. This role involves leading the operation, making values-based decisions both in the air and on the ground, and contributing to Virgin Atlantic's commitment to being the 'Most Loved' Travel Company. A genuine passion for flying and all aspects of aviation, combined with respect and teamwork, is fundamental within the diverse Pilot community.

What Virgin Atlantic Offers

Virgin Atlantic is committed to the development and wellbeing of its pilots, providing competitive salaries, industry-leading training, and secure contracts. There are ample opportunities for career progression to Senior First Officer and Captain roles.

The comprehensive rewards and benefits package reflects an inclusive culture and values, designed to reward, support, and develop employees. Beyond a competitive salary, core benefits include:

• A choice of four contract types designed to support pilots throughout their career.
• Ten confirmed days off every 12 months, in addition to 35 days of annual leave.
• Flexibility to swap duties with colleagues.
• Nine different duty preferences, including early/late and specific global regions.
• Opportunity to earn excellent extra working and disruption pay through volunteering for overtime.
• Industry-leading training and career development opportunities.
• Private Medical Scheme.
• Life Insurance and Income Protection.
• Loss of license cover, including injury and illness.
• Generous contributory pension scheme (up to 15% company contribution).
• Industry-leading Staff Travel benefits.
• Access to the employee assistance programme and Digital GP service.
• Virgin Group Discounts.
• A high-energy work environment that supports diversity, equity, and inclusion, with internal networks for support, guidance, and assistance.

Candidate Requirements

Suitable candidates for Pilot roles must meet the following criteria:

• A minimum of 1500 hours (First Officer) or 3000 hours (Senior First Officer) of flight time on a multi-pilot turbojet or multi-pilot turbo-prop aeroplane with a maximum take-off mass of not less than 10 tonnes or a certificated passenger seating configuration of more than 19 passengers.
• Current and Qualified on one of the following aircraft types: 737, 747, 757, 767, 777, or 787.
• Hold a current UK Class One Medical certificate.
• Possess an Unfrozen ATPL license issued by the UK CAA on the date of joining.
• Ability to demonstrate a high level of proficiency in English, certified as ICAO level 6 English Proficiency at the time of application.