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Military Schemes

If you’re thinking of leaving the military, British Airways offers a vast range of opportunities that can take your career in any direction you chose.

We currently have veterans working across the airline, from Ground Operations and Customer Experience roles, through to our Global Learning Academy, Head Office, and Engineering teams.

For those with the relevant military experience, our Military Pilot Pathway and Engineering Pathway could see you fast-tracked to an exciting career in civil aviation.

Military Pilot Pathway

Military pilots from the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, Army Air Corps and the Royal Marines are recognised worldwide for their commitment, unrivalled professionalism and airborne expertise.

At British Airways we don’t just recognise your piloting skills. We understand your ability to play a lead role on the team, making a real difference in the operation, and acting as an ambassador for our company.

With opportunities in training, management and more, we’re ready to welcome you on board one of the most diverse fleets and route networks in the world. 

an airplane on the runway
military officers

What you’ll need to apply

You’ll need:

  • You must meet the definition of a QMP(A) or QMP(H) as per CAP 2254 - Learn more here.
  • A minimum of 500 hours flying experience on any service aircraft.
  • Able to obtain, by your start date, a UK Part-FCL Licence and UK CAA Class 1 flight crew medical. You must have begun the process of obtaining a UK Part-FCL licence and be confident that you can obtain the licence within 18 months of application.
  • Your height will need to be between 1.57m (5'2") and 1.91m (6'3"). If you’re taller than 1.91m, you may apply, but you’ll be required to attend a functionality check to confirm your ability to meet seating position requirements.
  • A good level of physical fitness, and ability to satisfy the British Airways medical requirements.
  • ICAO Level 6 proficiency in English language by your start date.
  • A valid passport (with a minimum of 12 months before expiry date) allowing unrestricted worldwide travel.
  • The unrestricted right to live and work in the UK.

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Military Pathway to Licensed Aircraft Engineer

This is your chance to join one of the most diverse and innovative departments at British Airways.

Our engineering teams play a lead role in our mission to transform the way we fly the skies, making sure our fleet is always safe, secure, and ready for take off.

We offer a pathway for ex-military personnel, or those thinking of leaving the military, to begin a career with the nation’s flag carrier and gain a Civil Aviation Aircraft Maintenance Licence.

You must have a minimum of five years’ aircraft maintenance experience in a mechanical discipline to apply which often equates to the second signatory status, or Supervisor rank.

Alternative to this pathway, we also offer a Direct Entry Mechanic Scheme.
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aircraft engineers

Your route in

  • Following a successful application, you’ll complete a 100-day, UK CAA Part 66 Category B modular training course with a third-party training provider whilst employed as a British Airways Aircraft Mechanic.
  • Training will take place at either London Heathrow or Cardiff International Airport facilities.
  • Type Rating training and qualification will then be undertaken directly by British Airways.
  • Roles are based within the British Airways Maintenance Centre at Cardiff Wales Airport, or at British Airways’ base at London Heathrow Airport.
bronze award

Defence Employer Recognition Scheme

British Airways is proud to support the Defence community, and those who serve.
As a business, we have pledged to support the armed forces including existing or prospective employees who are members of the community, and are open to employing reservists, veterans (including the wounded, injured and sick) and military spouses or partners.
As part of our ongoing commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant we've been awarded a Bronze Rating by the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), reflecting our continued support of defence personnel and their families.