British Airways Launches Speedbird Pilot Academy to Fully Fund Pilot Training
British Airways is revolutionizing the aviation industry with the expansion of its groundbreaking Speedbird Pilot Academy, designed to make pilot training accessible to aspiring aviators from all walks of life. With a commitment to fostering diversity and eliminating financial obstacles, British Airways is investing £21 million to fund the training of up to 200 future pilots in 2025, doubling its original intake from 100 cadets.
A Game-Changer for Aspiring Pilots
For many, the dream of becoming a commercial pilot has long been hindered by the staggering costs of training, often exceeding £100,000. British Airways is now removing that barrier by fully covering these expenses for successful candidates. This multi-million-pound investment represents a significant step towards democratizing access to the flight deck, ensuring that talent, passion, and dedication—not financial means—determine who gets to fly.
“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,” said Sean Doyle, British Airways’ Chairman and CEO. “We’re leveling the playing field by removing the initial training cost barrier to make a flying career more accessible to a wider range of people and giving everyone an equal chance.”
What the Programme Offers
Successful applicants will embark on an 18-24 month integrated flight training course at one of British Airways’ approved flight schools, such as Skyborne or FTEJerez. The airline will cover tuition, accommodation, subsistence allowances, and even medical certification costs. Upon graduation, cadets will secure a position as a First Officer, joining British Airways’ renowned flight crew at either London Heathrow or Gatwick.
Beyond financial support, cadets will benefit from:
- Dynamic career progression opportunities
- Access to British Airways’ comprehensive staff travel perks from day one
- Up to 30 discounted ‘Hotline’ airfares per year for friends and family
- A company pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution
- Private medical cover, life insurance, and more
Selection Process & Application Details
The selection process for the Speedbird Pilot Academy is rigorous, and designed to identify candidates with the skills, passion, and resilience needed to thrive as British Airways pilots. The process unfolds in three stages:
- Initial Online Testing (February 11-21, 2025)
- Flight School Online Testing, In-Person Assessment, and Interview (March – June 2025)
- Final British Airways In-Person Assessment Centre (June – July 2025)
Applicants must be between 17 and 55 years old, possess at least six GCSEs (including Maths, English, and a Science), and meet British Airways’ medical and legal criteria. No prior flying experience is required—just the ambition and dedication to succeed.
A Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
British Airways is committed to increasing diversity within the aviation industry. The Speedbird Pilot Academy aims to attract candidates from a variety of backgrounds, actively working with community organizations like Fantasy Wings to promote the program to underrepresented groups, including women and individuals from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic communities.
Cadets like Ryan Street and Melanie Odden are already reaping the benefits of this initiative. Ryan, from Stockport, overcame financial barriers to pursue his lifelong dream of flying, while Melanie, balancing family life with training, has found new opportunities to achieve her goals thanks to British Airways’ support.
“Without the assistance, British Airways provided with this cadetship, I might not have ever been able to afford the current training costs,” Ryan shared. “It’s a dream come true.”
Apply Now and seize this amazing opportunity
Applications for the 2025 cohort of the Speedbird Pilot Academy are now open and will close on February 21, 2025. With unprecedented demand expected, prospective pilots are encouraged to apply promptly. For more information on how to prepare for the application process, visit British Airways’ careers page.
This is more than just a pilot training program; it’s an opportunity to join one of the world’s leading airlines, connect Britain with the world, and make your flying dreams a reality.
We have an amazing guide to help you through the application process with BA. Check it out here
