Hi, I'm Mehraj. I am very keen on applying for the Speedbird Programme offered. I have some questions regarding this?

Hi Mehraj.

Thank you for contacting us.

It is great that you are keen to apply to the Speedbird Pilot Academy and having some trial flights will stand you in good stead with the application process. While the eligiblity requirements have not yet been set for our 2026 campaign, it is likely they will be the same as our 2025 campaign and you should be able to find out more information on our careers page, Future Pilots, and our preparation and FAQs section Speedbird Pilot Academy Preparation. I would also recommend signing up for webinars at British Airways Pilot Recruitment and there will be some specifically aimed at applying for the Academy later in the year.

We do not require you to have a class 1 medical for the application, although we do ask that you consider whether or not you should apply if you are unlikely to get a medical, as we would not be able to offer you a contract without one if you were successful.

I hope this information helps and we look forward to your application.

Best wishes

Kate

Hi Kate

Thank you very much for your response.

I do have one question regarding the course. Once qualified we obtain an fATPL, what's the difference between this and an official ATPL? Also, when we qualify, which aircraft are we Type Rated for? Is it any of the aircraft be it long-haul or short haul or just the A320?

On a more personal note, I've done some trial sessions with Semet Aviation in their 152. Would you say they are a good flight school to get some lessons regarding flight? Also, I made an application to the CAA, but have yet to hear from them regarding my Class 1 Medical. One of the pages seems to require licence details, which obviously I as yet do not have?

Kind Regards

Mehraj

Hi Mehraj.

When you train to become a pilot you will complete your ATPL theory exams. Once you then achieve your CPL this is often referred to as a frozen ATPL. In order to get your ATPL you have to complete 1500 hours flying including night hours and a few other requirements which you would do while working for us.

When you qualify, you will do a type rating for short haul. At the current time at British Airways we only fly the A320 series on Shorthaul. Once you have completed your freeze, currently five years for cadets, and have your ATPL, you can bid to move to a long haul fleet.

I don‘t know about the flight schools I’m afraid. However, any experience in light aircraft will be beneficial in an application and in improving your handling skills and scan rate.

We do not require you to have a class 1 medical already when you apply but just to be aware of the limitations and to check any concerns you may have with an AME as it would be a shame to complete the assessment then not be eligible for the medical.

I help this helps and good luck with any future applications.

Kate