Hi.

The Speedbird Pilot Academy is a fantastic opportunity for those that are eligible and successful. It is also an important recruitment tool for British Airways bringing in talented, new and enthusiastic pilots to our airline.

As an airline we are required to adhere to both UK CAA and government laws and regulations and these will affect who the program can be open to.

There are other airlines that run sponsored schemes and many of our pilots have worked in previous careers and self funded pilot training. So while it feels like a difficult career to attain, it is possible via several routes.

I hope you find a way to follow your dreams!

Kate

26 August, 2025 08:18

Hi -

For the Speedbird Pilot Academy, you will need to have the right to work in the UK. For example, this could be by having settled status if you were from a country in the EU. There are some other cases that would qualify you for having the right to work in the UK without holding a British passport or citizenship, however these are rare. Unfortunately, we are unable to sponsor those applying for the right to work via a skilled worker visa for a number of reasons.

I am not sure of the requirements for other cadet programmes, but that is something you could look into, alongside saving in parallel to enroll on a modular course, where you would not have to put down such a large upfront payment. Of course, this could take more time to complete, however it is an option.

It is such a hard industry to get into and I'm sorry that you do not hold the required visa status to apply, I really do wish you the best of luck.

Chloe

26 August, 2025 08:18