Direct Entry Pilot – Short-haul

# Embark on a Limitless Aviation Career: Pilot Opportunity with British Airways This review offers an in-depth look at an exciting pilot opportunity with British Airways, designed to help prospective candidates understand the advantages and key considerations for their career path. As the UK's flag carrier, British Airways boasts a rich heritage of connecting Britain with the world, dating back over a century to the pioneering international scheduled air service between London and Paris. This spirit of originality and innovation is deeply embedded in the company culture, creating an environment where ambition and forward-thinking are not just encouraged, but celebrated. ## Why Choose British Airways? At British Airways, the sky is truly not the limit. This role offers a unique chance to be part of a globally recognized airline that values its people and fosters a culture of continuous development. ### Key Advantages for Aspiring Pilots: * Dynamic Career Progression: This position offers an unparalleled career path. Starting on the Airbus A320 short-haul fleet, you'll have the exciting choice to transition to one of four long-haul fleets or specialize and become a Captain on the short-haul operations. This flexibility ensures your career can evolve with your aspirations. * World-Class Flight Experience: Central to British Airways' mission is delivering exceptional customer experiences. As a pilot, your primary goal will be to provide the highest standard of flight service, ensuring every passenger's journey is world-class. * Diverse Opportunities Beyond Flying: The career growth doesn't stop at the flight deck. British Airways offers a multitude of roles outside of direct flying, including opportunities in training and recruiting the next generation of pilots. This provides avenues for diversification and continued learning. * Exceptional Reward and Benefits: Beyond a competitive salary, British Airways offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to value its employees. This includes: * Staff Travel: Access to brilliant staff travel benefits, including unlimited basic and premium standby tickets on British Airways flights, and up to 30 discounted 'Hotline' airfares annually for yourself, friends, and family. * Fleet Diversity: The opportunity to experience and fly across 5 different fleet types (after an initial period). * Pension Scheme: A company pension scheme with up to a 15% employer contribution. * Life Insurance and Private Medical Cover: Standard benefits to ensure your well-being and security. * Additional Voluntary Benefits: A range of voluntary benefits for yourself and family, such as technology schemes, Cycle to Work programs, and electric/plug-in hybrid car schemes. * Varied Roster Patterns: Experience a dynamic work-life balance with a variety of roster patterns, including night stops, day trips, and tours. * Company-Funded Training: Benefit from a company-funded conversion course and type rating, with no bonding requirements. ## What British Airways is Looking For: To thrive in this role, candidates will need a strong foundation in aviation and a commitment to excellence. ### Essential Requirements: * Experience on Type: A current A320 type rating with a minimum of 500 hours on type (excluding simulator time) and recent flight experience on the A320 family within the last 12 months. * Licensing: A current UK-issued CAA Flight Crew Licence ATPL(A), fATPL(A), or MPL. Alternatively, an EASA licence with adherence to the UK CAA's "Third Country CPL and ATPL licence conversion requirements." * Medical: A Class 1 medical certificate (required before a job offer). * Physical Requirements: Height between 1.57m (5'2") and 1.91m (6'3"). Pilots taller than 1.91m may apply but will undergo a functionality check. A good level of physical fitness is also expected. * Language Proficiency: Spoken and written English at ICAO Level 6. * Documentation: A valid passport with a minimum of 12 months remaining before expiry. ## Important Considerations for Candidates: * Reapplication Policy: Candidates who are unsuccessful at initial screening, video interview, capacity testing, or the assessment centre can reapply after 6 months. Those unsuccessful at the SIM stage must wait 12 months. * Airline Application Limits: You may only apply to one airline within the British Airways family (British Airways, Euroflyer, or Cityflyer) at a time. * Hold Pool System: Successful candidates will enter a hold pool and receive a maximum of two job offers. Declining the second offer will result in exiting the pool, requiring a reapplication after 12 months. * Diversity and Inclusion: British Airways is an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and inclusion. They encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply. This pilot role with British Airways represents more than just a job; it's an invitation to join a historic airline and build a truly limitless career. If you possess the required qualifications and a passion for aviation excellence, this opportunity offers a platform for significant professional growth and a rewarding lifestyle.