Aeros Flight Training has announced its support for the 2026 British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy, as applications open for the fully funded scheme aimed at developing the next generation of commercial airline pilots.
Flag carrier British Airways has committed £18 million to fund up to 160 aspiring pilots through the highly competitive programme, removing traditional financial barriers and widening access to aviation careers across the UK.
As part of the 2026 intake, Aeros will work alongside British Airways as a selected training partner, delivering elements of the course using its FastTrack and FlexiTrack training pathways. The training will be conducted in line with the airline’s operational requirements, supporting cadets on their journey towards commercial flight deck roles.
The Speedbird Pilot Academy covers the full cost of training—typically around £100,000—over a two-year period. Successful candidates will progress directly into flying roles with British Airways upon completion, making it one of the most comprehensive sponsored pilot training schemes currently available.
Nick Dunn, CEO of Aeros, said the initiative represents a significant step in opening up the industry:
“We are proud to support British Airways in delivering the Speedbird Pilot Academy and helping to widen access to aviation careers. Removing financial barriers is one of the most important steps in attracting the very best talent into the industry, and this initiative creates real opportunity for aspiring pilots who may not otherwise have considered this path.
“The demand for pilot training continues to grow, and programmes like this play a vital role in building a strong and diverse future workforce for UK aviation.”
The academy has already seen nearly 50 pilots progress into flight deck roles with British Airways, with tens of thousands of applicants each year underlining the strong demand for such opportunities. The 2026 programme continues this momentum, offering up to 160 fully funded places.
Applications for the latest intake opened on Tuesday the 14th of April 2026 and will close on Thursday the 23rd April 2026 via the British Airways careers website.