Join British Airways as a Direct Entry Longhaul Pilot
If you’re an experienced pilot dreaming of operating long-range, wide-body aircraft across global skies, this is your moment. British Airways, the UK’s flag carrier, is welcoming applications for Direct Entry First Officers to join its prestigious Longhaul fleet.
With over a century of aviation excellence, British Airways offers a career path like no other. From world-leading training to one of the industry’s most diverse fleets, this is where your aviation future takes off.
🌍 Why Choose British Airways?
British Airways has been connecting Britain with the world for more than 100 years. From launching the first international scheduled air service between London and Paris to operating next-gen aircraft globally, BA remains at the forefront of commercial aviation.
As a Direct Entry Pilot, you’ll be trusted to deliver exceptional flight experiences, ensuring safety, comfort, and world-class professionalism at 35,000 feet.
What sets BA apart?
- 🌟 Global recognition and heritage
- ✈️ Access to a variety of longhaul and short-haul aircraft
- 💼 Career progression beyond flying—training, recruitment, leadership
- 🌐 Extensive international routes
- 👨✈️ Strong pilot community with shared values of excellence and safety
🧭 Your Career, Your Way
Your journey starts with the Boeing 777 or Airbus A320, with the opportunity to transfer to other fleets like the 777X when it enters service. Whether your goal is to become a captain or mentor new pilots, British Airways offers multiple career paths across its longhaul and short-haul operations.
Additional Perks:
- Fleet transfers based on internal seniority
- Pilot recruitment and training roles available
- Hotel accommodation support for certain duties
- A vibrant and inclusive work culture
- Entry into a supportive Hold Pool with two guaranteed job offers
🎯 Minimum Criteria to Apply
To qualify as a Direct Entry Longhaul Pilot with British Airways, ensure you meet the following:
- ✅ UK-issued CAA Flight Crew Licence ATPL(A), fATPL(A), or MPL with upgrade hours
- ✅ Alternatively, hold an EASA licence and meet the UK CAA conversion criteria
- ✅ Valid Class 1 Medical Certificate
- ✅ ICAO English Level 6 proficiency
- ✅ Height between 1.57m (5’2”) and 1.91m (6’3”)
- ✅ Good physical health
- ✅ No tattoos on face, head, or hands
- ✅ Valid passport with at least 12 months before expiry
🔗 Note: Pilots with EASA licences and prior UK Part-FCL licences must upload proof of their UK training or previous UK licence.
📅 Upcoming Assessment Dates
British Airways is conducting pilot assessments on the following dates:
July:
- 3rd, 7th, 22nd, 30th
August:
- 5th, 27th
September:
- 4th, 16th, 17th, 30th
🛑 If unsuccessful at video, capacity, or simulator stage, candidates must wait 6–12 months before reapplying. You may only apply to one British Airways family airline at a time (British Airways, Euroflyer, or Cityflyer).
💼 Job Location & Fleet Information
- Most job offers will be for the Boeing 777 and A320 fleets
- Pilots may operate out of Heathrow (LHR) and Gatwick (LGW)
- Preference given to those with a valid type rating on the specific fleet
- Longhaul suitability is tested during simulator assessments
🎁 What British Airways Offers You
British Airways doesn’t just offer a job—it offers a lifestyle of excellence. Here’s what you get when you join the team:
- 💰 Competitive Salary + Benefits Package
- 👨👩👧👦 Staff travel for you and your family
- 🔁 Dynamic roster patterns (day trips, night stops, tours)
- ✈️ Five unique fleet types to explore
- 💼 15% employer pension contribution
- 🚗 Discounted car hire, hotels, and travel products
- ❤️ Private medical, life insurance, cycle-to-work scheme
- 🔧 Company-funded conversion courses and type ratings
- 🧑🔧 Opportunities in training, simulator instruction, and recruitment
- 🌱 Inclusive work culture where individuality thrives
🤝 Inclusion & Diversity at British Airways
British Airways celebrates the uniqueness of every team member. They are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome, respected, and valued—regardless of age, race, gender, or background.
📌 Final Note:
If you’re passionate about aviation, meet the eligibility criteria, and are ready to take your pilot career to new heights apply now and become part of the legacy that is British Airways.
Important Notice for Job Seekers
Most job openings are available for about two weeks. If you apply late, the position may be filled and the apply link mentioned above might not work.
Please don’t get discouraged—new jobs are posted regularly. We recommend applying early and staying connected with us for the latest aviation job opportunities worldwide.
Thank you for your patience and good luck!
