Tuesday, February 6, 2024
In a historic milestone for British Airways, a team of talented apprentices successfully assisted in the departure of a flight to South Africa, showcasing the vital role apprenticeships play within the airline.
During National Apprenticeship Week 2024, approximately 40 apprentices collaborated across various roles to ensure the smooth departure of the 18:25 Boeing 777 BA43 flight from London Heathrow to Cape Town, South Africa.
These apprentices were stationed at check-in counters, lounges, and boarding gates, aiding over 300 passengers as they prepared for departure. Meanwhile, ground operations apprentices managed baggage handling and engineering tasks on the airfield, ensuring the aircraft was flight-ready.
Jawad Arbi, a Heathrow Operations Apprentice at British Airways, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Working with fellow apprentices to ensure a safe departure has been an incredible experience. Joining British Airways as an apprentice has transformed my career, and I look forward to further developing my skills.”
British Airways’ apprentice program, now in its 13th year, has witnessed a surge in applicants, with a 75% increase compared to 2022, totaling 4,500 applications last year. The airline currently offers more apprenticeship positions than ever before, with 290 openings available.
Apprentices joining British Airways embark on diverse roles in Customer, Business, and Operations sectors, working alongside seasoned airline professionals, engaging in real-world aviation projects, and receiving valuable mentorship to jumpstart their careers.
Rachel Iley, Director of Global Learning Academy at British Airways, emphasized the pivotal role apprenticeships play in the workforce, stating, “This landmark flight underscores the integral role apprentices play in our workforce and the opportunities available to those who join British Airways on one of our schemes.”
Throughout 2023, British Airways’ Emerging Talent team attended nearly 250 career and job fair events, reaching out to approximately 37,000 young individuals to inspire them to pursue careers in aviation.
The airline plans to open applications for its next cohort of apprenticeships in October 2024, signaling its commitment to nurturing emerging talent and supporting early careers in aviation.
Robert Halfon, Minister for Skills, Apprenticeships, and Higher Education, praised British Airways’ dedication to apprenticeships, highlighting their role in addressing skills gaps and fostering economic growth. He encouraged other businesses to follow suit and reap the benefits of apprenticeship programs.
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
