Hi -

In order to qualify for our Self-Sponsored Pathway, you would need the right to work in the UK as we cannot sponsor applicants for the visa. You would need to check this on the UK government website as it is not something we can advise on.

The Self-Sponsored Pathway is currently closed and we have no current plans to reopen it; not to say it will not open again at some point in the future. If you were to continue your plan to train with FTE and obtain your licence, once you had the required jet hours, you could apply to one of our mainline Direct Entry Pilot positions. Our DEP campaigns do not require the candidates to hold a RTW visa.

I hope this has helped and best of luck!

Chloe

12 May, 2025 07:41

Hi.

Thanks for your question.

You would not be eligible for the Speedbird Pilot Academy without the unrestricted right to live and work in the UK long term as you will need to meet government rules once you finish your training and are working in the UK full time.

I hope this helps.

Kate

12 May, 2025 07:45

Ok i thought BA could sponsor visas for pilots

13 May, 2025 14:29

We can sponsor pilots for visas but only when the salary is at a certain level which would not be met as a Newly Qualified Pilot. We accept Direct Entry Pilots to our mainline campaigns once you have sufficient hours.

We wish you all the best with your training.

15 May, 2025 14:47

Hi -

At this time, British Airways are only able to sponsor applicants for the mainline Direct Entry Pilot campaigns. Any pilots applying for our CityFlyer or EuroFlyer Direct Entry Pilot campaigns, would need the Right to Work visa.

Chloe

15 May, 2025 14:47