BRITISH Airways is the second largest UK-based carrier after easyJet in terms of fleet size and number of passengers.
While it sets out to hire more talent in the field with its new pilot recruitment program, here’s how much a rookie aviator could actually get.
How much do British Airways pilots get paid and what is the starting salary?
An entry-level pilot at British Airways can expect £65,000 annually, according to MyFamilyHome.com.
A senior first officer takes home between £100,000 and £120,000 per year.
And a captain can earn up to £167,000 in yearly pay.
Which UK airline pays pilots the most?
According to LoveTheMaldives.com, Virgin Atlantic is the UK airline which pays its pilots the most, with an average salary of £75,202.
In second place is British Airways, which pays pilots £73,550 per year on average.
And Jet2 comes in third, annually paying its pilots an average of £68,970.
How do I become a British Airways pilot?
British Airways prides itself on having “a long tradition of welcoming people from all walks of life into a career in the skies”.
Although the applications for the BA Speedbird Pilot Academy 2023 are now closed, it will re-open in Spring 2024. Here is everything you need to know about becoming a pilot for the airline.
The Speedbird Pilot Academy is the British Airways’ fully funded training scheme for up to 60 successful candidates per year — working with selected flight training organisations.
According to their website, you will need to meet the following application criteria to become a pilot:
- 17-55 years of age to apply and 18 years of age to start training
- 6 GCSEs grade A-C or 5-9 including Maths, English and a Science or equivalent qualifications*
- Fluent in English (and, if applicable, an ICAO Level 6 on completion of training) — For non-native English speakers, you will need to a certificate proving you have achieved International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Level 5.5 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any individual area (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking); this must be the Academic test, not General Training.
- A valid passport which permits unrestricted worldwide travel
- The right to live and study in the UK without the need for sponsorship
- Your height must be between 1.57m (5’2″) and 1.90m (6’3″). Height is accurately determined during the assessment process. If you’re taller than 1.90m, you may submit an application, but may be required to undergo a functionality check
- Able to obtain and hold a UK CAA Class 1 medical with no restrictions and meet British Airways medical criteria**
- Before training starts, you must have completed referencing and pre-employment checks to the satisfactory standard and supply satisfactory UK and international Criminal Record Checks
*GCSE equivalent qualifications will be accepted and assessed by ECCTIS
** Please refer to https://www.caa.co.uk/aeromedical-examiners/medical-standards/pilots/medical-standards-for-pilots/
Although technical skills are important, the airline says it prioritises an applicant’s behaviour as a pilot as the thing that will set them apart.
It believes its pilots should be passionate and enthusiastic about connecting Britain with the rest of the world.
As the British Airways website explains: “You’ll need to demonstrate the passion and motivation to excel during the training programme, the ability to remain calm under pressure and a strong ability to solve problems.
“Collaborating and demonstrating you’re a team player is also essential to create incredible experiences for our customers and colleagues on board.”
In September 2023 it was revealed British Airways is picking up the £100,000 tab for 60 applicants a year — making the dream of a career in the cockpit come true for those selected.
Read more on the Scottish Sun
The 60 wannabe pilots started training in 2024 and will be flying with British Airways by the end of 2025.
Sean Doyle, the airline’s Chief Executive, said: “The Speedbird Pilot Academy will make the ambition of becoming a British Airways pilot a reality for people who’d previously written the option off because of the cost barrier.”
