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 Direct Entry Pilot Scheme and Engineering Pathway could see you fast-tracked to an exciting career in civil aviation.
Direct Entry Pilot Scheme
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 expertise. 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. Contact your careers manager to apply.
What you’ll need to apply
The eligibility criteria for the British Airways Managed Path is contained in Tri-Service 2023DIN01-070. You’ll need:
- A total of 1,500 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
- Your height will need to be between 1.57m (5'2") and 1.91m (6'3") with weight in proportion to height (height is accurately determined during the assessment process). 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
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.
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.
