British Airways launches fully-funded pilot training for 4th year

British Airways (BA/BAW) has opened applications for fully-funded pilot training for the fourth year in a row investing £18m into future pilots.

The funding will see 160 places available on the Speedbird Pilot Academy programme and will cover the £100,000 training cost of each student over the two year course as well as guaranteeing successful applicants a job with the airline.

British Airways says the scheme with “level the playing” field for a career in aviation and comes as research shows almost one in four adults would have considered a flying career had a fully-funded option been available.

Sean Doyle, British Airways’ Chairman and Chief Executive, said: “The Speedbird Pilot Academy is an investment not just in British Airways, but in the future of UK aviation. 

“We want the very best talent out there for our future generation of pilots; by removing the costs, we’re opening the opportunity up to more people and making a flying career more accessible to all.” 

Applications for the Speedbird Pilot Academy opened today and will close on the 23rd of April giving potential applicants a short window to apply.

Requirements for the course are six GCSEs grade A-C or 4-9, including Maths, English Language and a Science or equivalent qualifications, and hold a valid passport that permits unrestricted worldwide travel.

Simon Cheadle, British Airways’ Director of Flight Operations, added:  “We’re incredibly proud to open our doors once again to people who may never have believed a career as a pilot was within reach. The response to the Speedbird Pilot Academy in previous years has been extraordinary, and the calibre of applicants shows just how much talent is out there, talent that simply needs the opportunity.   

“By launching the programme this year, we’re investing not only in individuals but in the long-term future of British Airways and UK aviation. This initiative strengthens our talent pipeline, supports the industry’s future leadership, and ensures we continue to attract the very best flying talent for years to come.”  

To find out more about the Speedbird Pilot Academy or to apply visit: https://careers.ba.com/future-pilots