Future Pilots

We take great pride in our past. However, we’re always looking ahead too. That’s why we’re recruiting the very best future flying talent through our Pilot Pathway schemes.

Whether you're just leaving school, or considering a second career you never thought possible, [redacted] is putting ambitious pilots from all walks of life on the journey from Cadet to Captain.

It won't be easy getting there. Earning your wings involves challenges and requires persistence. However, if you have the commitment then we’re ready to help your career soar.

Speedbird Pilot Academy

We want to make becoming a [redacted] pilot a reality for anyone with the ability and drive to succeed.

Each year, our Speedbird Pilot Academy Cadet programme provides fully-funded flight training for up to 100 candidates.

By removing the initial training cost barrier, we’re levelling the playing field and making a flying career more accessible to a much wider range of people.

Integrated flight training courses are full-time and take 18-24 months to complete. If you are successful in flight training, you will join us as a [redacted] Pilot.

While we’re not currently recruiting for the Speedbird Pilot Academy scheme, you can create a job alert to be notified once the next application window opens.

Applications are currently planned to open again in 2025. In the meantime, you can read our Preparation materials, including some useful resources to help you prepare your future application.

Speedbird Self-Sponsored Pathway: Post Instrument Rating

We also offer opportunities for qualified pilots who have completed their training through a modular or integrated course at any Approved Training Organisation (ATO) they have chosen to train with. 

If you meet our entry criteria, you’ll be invited for an assessment at the [redacted] Head Office, which will include a computerised test designed to see how you work under pressure.

If successful, you'll then attend an interview and group exercise before being placed into the hold pool, where a conditional offer may be made. Successful candidates will join as a First Officer on board our A320 short-haul fleet at Gatwick or Heathrow.

Sponsored Pathway: With ATO

This is our recruitment programme for trainee pilots studying at one of four Approved Training Organisations: Skyborne, L3Harris, Leading Edge Aviation and FTEJerez. This is self-funded by the trainee.

Trainees who meet our eligibility requirements are identified as potential candidates for a career with [redacted] and will receive conditional job offers before they start training at the ATO, or before they graduate. Students can apply before starting training. To qualify for the programme, you must go on to complete your Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) exams, achieving an average score of 85 percent with no more than three resists, and a first series pass at your CPL & MEIR.

On successful completion of your training, you’ll join as a First Officer on board our A320 short-haul fleet at Gatwick or Heathrow.