British Airways Opens Fully Funded Pilot Program, Director Simon Cheadle Leads the Way

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

On Tuesday, April 16, 2024, the airline will launch the application period for the second year of its fully funded Speedbird Pilot Academy cadet program. This announcement comes on the heels of an extraordinary turnout in its inaugural year, with over 20,000 applicants vying for only 100 available slots.

Part of the airline’s £7 billion investment across its operations, the Speedbird Pilot Academy initiative seeks to democratize the pathway to becoming a commercial airline pilot. By eliminating the significant financial burden previously associated with self-financed training, the program aims to make this career option accessible to all individuals.

British Airways’ Director of Flight Operations Simon Cheadle, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be able to open the door to a flying career to more people through this programme.

“We know from the overwhelming response and high standard of applications we had in the first year of Speedbird Pilot Academy, that there are a lot of talented people who just need a little bit of help to achieve their dream of becoming a commercial airline pilot – and we are pleased to give them that opportunity.    

“We want to continue to attract the very best flying talent and our investment in this programme will help to ensure our future generation of pilots for years to come.”

From April 16, 2024, candidates can submit their applications for the program, which offers up to 100 positions. Successful applicants will have the entire cost of their training, approximately £100,000, covered by the airline. Applications can be made through the British Airways careers site.

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