A career without limits
As the nation’s flag carrier, we take great pride in connecting Britain with the world and the world with Britain.
The role: Direct Entry Pilot – Long‑haul
Your goal will be to provide the very best flight experience possible for each passenger. Wherever you are going, your flying will be world class and you will be challenged every day to perform to the highest standards.
As a pilot in British Airways, your career path is never defined. Starting on one of our four long‑haul fleets you will be able to choose to transfer to another long‑haul fleet or to our short‑haul fleet to become a captain. A wide variety of roles outside of flying – from training to recruiting the pilots of the future – are available, giving you countless opportunities to grow.
Work‑life balance
With nearly 70 long‑haul aircraft on order this is an exciting time to join our pilot community. We have recently introduced significant roster enhancements to give pilots greater flexibility and balance: more rest after blocks of work, reduced monthly flying targets, shorter working blocks, fewer standby periods and increased guaranteed days off.
Your Experience – What you’ll bring to British Airways
* More than 1,500 total flying hours at the time of application, of which at least 500 must be on a relevant aircraft type and may include up to 100 hours in a suitable simulator.
* Relevant aircraft type experience within 12 months preceding the commencement of a Zero Flight Time Training (ZFTT) Conversion course.
* ATPL licence or the ability to complete it during type rating. ATPL requirements are listed on https://www.caa.co.uk/commercial-industry/pilot-licences/aeroplanes/airline-transport-pilot-licence-for-aeroplanes/.
* Current UK‑issued CAA Flight Crew Licence ATPL(A), fATPL(A) or MPL with the hours required to upgrade to an ATPL, or a non‑UK ATPL licence that meets the UK CAA conversion requirements from 1 January 2023.
* Class 1 medical – must have a UK CAA‑issued medical before a job offer is made.
* Height between 1.57 m and 1.91 m (5’2″–6’3″). Pilots taller than 1.91 m may apply but must undergo a functionality check.
* Good level of physical fitness, spoken and written English ICAO level 6, valid passport (minimum 12 months before expiry).
* 500 hours on a relevant aircraft type (not including simulator time) and have flown that type within the last 12 months.
* Compliance with British Airways uniform standards – tattoos allowed except on hands, face or head.
* Ability to swim 50 m (55 yards) followed by treading water for 3 minutes and assist people in water. Detailed swim test requirements are listed in the nested qualifications.
Minimum Criteria to Apply
* Part‑FCL definition of a relevant aircraft type is a multi‑pilot turbo‑jet aircraft certified to CS‑25 or equivalent, or a multi‑pilot turbo‑prop aircraft of more than 10 tonnes or more than 19 passengers.
Job Opportunities and Fleet Details
Jobs are available on all fleets. Only CCQ courses are available on long‑haul Airbus fleets. 777 pilots operate out of LHR and LGW, and will also operate the Boeing 777X when it enters service. Preference is given to applicants holding a current rating on the aircraft type. Moves to other fleets will be processed via the internal fleet move system and awarded on a seniority basis.
Inclusion & Diversity
We recognise that all colleagues are uniquely different and bring their own originality, creativity and identity to work. We encourage people from all backgrounds to be part of our journey to become a Better BA.
Non‑UK Licence Holders
Information for licence conversion for non‑UK licence holders can be found on the CAA’s website. Only EASA licence holders who have previously held a UK Part‑FCL licence (CPL or ATPL) or currently hold an EASA ATPL (with limitations) can claim credit for ATPL Theoretical Knowledge exams. Ineligible pilots must complete UK ATPL theoretical knowledge exams before simulator assessment.
Reapplication Process
Candidates who were not successful at initial screening or assessment step may reapply after 6 months from the most recent assessment date (12 months if not successful at the SIM stage). Candidates in the hold pool may receive up to two job offers before exiting the pool and reapplying after 12 months.
What We Offer
* Dynamic career path and varied roster patterns (night stops, day trips, tours).
* Company pension scheme (up to 15% employer contribution).
* Extensive worldwide staff travel and discounted airfares.
* Choice of five fleet types after initial freeze.
* Life insurance benefits and company‑funded conversion course/type rating (not bonded).
* Discounts at car hire, hotels and retail stores.
* Voluntary benefits for employees and families.
* Private medical cover, technology scheme, cycle‑to‑work and electric/plug‑in hybrid car scheme.
Equal Employment Opportunity
We are an equal opportunities employer and value diversity at British Airways. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, age, marital status, veteran status or disability status. This job description provides essential information to understand the scope, nature and level of work involved in this position.
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