Direct Entry Pilot – Aspiration for Command

British Airways; Crawley; On-site; GBP 78,000 - 116,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading airline is seeking Direct Entry Pilots with a clear pathway to command. Successful candidates will enjoy a competitive starting salary of £78,000, with the possibility to earn more with command positions. This role offers excellent work-life balance, benefits for pilots and their families, and a supportive team culture. Applicants must possess a valid UK-issued pilot license and meet flight hour requirements.

Benefits

30 days annual leave

Up to 15% employer pension contribution

Access to BA Health Services

Loss of Licence scheme

Qualifications

• Must hold a UK-issued CAA ATPL (A), fATPL (A), or MPL.
• Minimum 2500 hours total time on relevant aircraft.
• Class 1 medical certificate is required.

Responsibilities

• Join a fleet with a pathway to promotion within 12 months.
• Participate in short-haul flying programs, returning to base every evening.
• Contribute to the vibrant team culture and support fellow team members.

Skills

CAA ATPL (A), fATPL (A), MPL or EASA licence

Minimum 2500 hours total time

ICAO English Level 6

Job description

BA Euroflyer – Aspiration for Command

Your Pathway to Command Starts Here

At British Airways, we’ve been connecting Britain with the world for over 100 years. From pioneering the world’s first international scheduled air service to delivering premium service across the globe, our legacy is built on originality, ambition, and excellence.

Now, at BA Euroflyer, we’re looking for Direct Entry Pilots who are ready to take the next step—those with the skills, energy, and leadership to become Captains.

As an experienced First Officer, you’ll join a fleet where your aspiration for command is supported by a clear pathway to promotion within 12 months (subject to vacancy and meeting required standards). You’ll be part of a team that’s helping to take our wings to new heights from our base at London Gatwick, flying to over 40 sought‑after destinations across Europe and North Africa.

Why Join Euroflyer?

• Return to base every evening with our short-haul flying programme
• Fixed pattern roster offering genuine lifestyle balance
• Bidding system and swap function to tailor your schedule
• Vibrant team culture with personal connection and support
• Part of the British Airways family, with access to career development and expertise

What We Offer

• Starting salary of £78,000 plus circa £14,332 in allowances
• Command salary of £115,460 plus circa £25,148 in allowances, with annual pay uplifts
• Fully funded type rating – no bond attached
• 30 days annual leave, including single‑use leave days
• Up to 15% employer pension contribution (up to £11,250 in year one, £16,500 post‑upgrade)
• Access to BA Health Services or subsidised Class 1 renewals
• Place on the British Airways master seniority list – your gateway to future opportunities

Benefits for You and Your Family

• Loss of Licence scheme
• Life Assurance up to 5x salary
• Private Health Insurance with AXA PPP
• Annual Bookable Concessions (after 12 months) with business class upgrades
• Discounted travel, hotels & car hire
• Employee Assistance Programme – free support including counselling and financial advice

What We’re Looking For

• UK‑issued CAA ATPL (A), fATPL (A), MPL or EASA licence meeting UK CAA conversion routes (3, 4, 5 or 6)
• Minimum 2500 hours total time (subject to factorisation) on an aircraft type that satisfies ZFTT and you must have flown this type within the last 6 months
• Right to live and work in the UK
• ICAO English Level 6, valid passport, and Class 1 medical
• Height between 1.57m and 1.91m (functionality check required if taller)

Additional Information

• Reapply periods: 6 months (initial stages), 12 months (SIM stage)
• Apply to only one BA Group airline at a time
• Successful candidates will enter a hold pool with up to 2 job offers
• Roadshows will be held across the UK, including London Gatwick, Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow

If you’ve previously applied to the British Airways Short Haul A320 campaign and would like to be considered for the Aspiration to Command pathway, please contact: [e-mail]

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer, committed to diversity and inclusion across our teams.