British Airways has opened applications for its fully-funded pilot training programme, the Speedbird Pilot Academy, for the fourth consecutive year.
The airline is investing £18m to fund up to 160 places on the programme, covering the £100,000 cost of pilot training over two years. Successful candidates will be guaranteed a flying role with British Airways upon completion of the training.
The scheme aims to remove financial barriers and level the playing field, making it possible for individuals from all backgrounds to pursue a career as a commercial airline pilot. According to new research, almost one in four UK adults would have considered becoming an airline pilot if training had been fully funded. However, awareness of fully-funded pilot training programmes remains low, with 87% of UK adults unaware of such initiatives.
British Airways' Chairman and Chief Executive, Sean Doyle, stated that the Speedbird Pilot Academy is an investment in the future of UK aviation, seeking to attract the best talent and make a flying career more accessible to all. To date, almost 50 pilots have completed the programme, which has been instrumental in promoting diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry.
Applications for the Speedbird Pilot Academy are now open and will close on 23 April 2026. Eligible candidates must be between 17 and 58 years old, hold a valid passport, and have six GCSEs grade A-C or 4-9, including Maths, English Language, and a Science or equivalent qualifications.
Successful applicants will train with one of British Airways' approved training partners before embarking on a career as a pilot.
With tens of thousands of applicants expected to apply, the competition for a place on the programme is expected to be highly competitive.
Simon Cheadle, British Airways’ Director of Flight Operations, said: “We’re incredibly proud to open our doors once again to people who may never have believed a career as a pilot was within reach. The response to the Speedbird Pilot Academy in previous years has been extraordinary, and the calibre of applicants shows just how much talent is out there, talent that simply needs the opportunity.
“By launching the programme this year, we’re investing not only in individuals but in the long-term future of British Airways and UK aviation. This initiative strengthens our talent pipeline, supports the industry’s future leadership, and ensures we continue to attract the very best flying talent for years to come.”
More information and applications made by visiting https://careers.ba.com/future-pilots
