11 February 2025
British Airways has opened the window for applications to the sponsored 2025 Speedbird Pilot Academy. Two hundred (200) places are available.
The multi-million-pound training initiative, launched in 2023, offers aspiring pilots of all backgrounds a fully funded path to the flightdeck with British Airways.
Successful candidates will undergo a joint selection process with BA and the chosen Approved Training Organisation, before starting training.
On completion of the UK CAA Integrated ATPL course, graduates will secure positions as First Officers with BA, marking the start of their career with the UK flag carrier.
Lucy Silvester, pilot recruitment manager, British Airways, said, “Speedbird Pilot Academy really is an opportunity to level the playing field and dream big with some of the best flight training academies in the industry.
“To date, the initiative has been a huge success and we’re excited to continue to work with Skyborne to welcome the next group of talented individuals to a British Airways’ flightdeck.”
Josh Bates started his BA Speedbird course in 2023 and is nearing the finish. Photo: Skyborne
The scheme saw more than 20,000 applicants in its first year. Among them was Josh Bates, who is currently completing his single-engine phase of flight training with Skyborne in Vero Beach, Florida.
Josh Bates said, “The Speedbird Pilot Academy has been a once in a lifetime opportunity. Skyborne’s expertise, flexibility, and world-class facilities have made my hopes of becoming a pilot a reality.
“With job security upon graduation, lifelong friends and invaluable lessons, I’m incredibly grateful to British Airways and Skyborne for the chance to fulfil my goal in a supportive and structured environment.”
Applicants must be aged between 18-55, with six GCSEs at grade A-C or 5-9, including Maths, English and Science, or an equivalent qualification.
The application window for the Speedbird Pilot Academy scheme is now open and the last day to submit your application is 21 February 2025.
Materials and advice to help candidates prepare their applications are available from the British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy here.
