Tuesday, July 23, 2024
Reading Time: 3 minutesThe initiative, known as the Speedbird Pilot Academy, is part of British Airways’ commitment to fostering the next generation of pilots by enhancing social mobility and diversity within its ranks. To reach a broader array of candidates, the airline collaborates with various community groups to encourage applications from individuals who might have previously been deterred by financial barriers.
Launched the previous year and accepting new applicants each year, the Academy has already welcomed 100 trainees from an overwhelming pool of over 20,000 applicants for its 2025 programme. Originally set for 100 participants, the number of sponsored spots has now doubled to 200 due to the programme’s success and demand.
The training process spans two years, culminating in a position as a qualified First Officer at British Airways, which boasts a workforce of approximately 4,000 pilots. The announcement was made at the Farnborough International Airshow, where British Airways showcased a newly acquired A320neo aircraft. This aircraft, which features cutting-edge interiors, arrived at the event using a fuel blend containing over 35 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel, highlighting the airline’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Sean Doyle, British Airways’ Chairman and CEO, said:“I’m incredibly proud of the Speedbird Pilot Academy and the opportunity it provides to those talented individuals who have held a lifetime ambition of becoming a commercial airline pilot, but have perhaps found it difficult to independently fund their training. The standard of applicants we see for this programme are consistently high so as part of our commitment to attracting the very best candidates from right across society, we’ve increased the 2025 cohort to give as many people as possible the chance of realising their dream.”
Ryan Street, hailing from Stockport, had always aspired to a career in the skies. From the age of 12, he was an active member of the air cadets, eventually achieving the position of Cadet Warrant Officer. Prior to his acceptance into the Speedbird Pilot Academy, Ryan gained hands-on experience at Manchester Airport, where he worked for a ground handling company. During his tenure there, he took on several roles, such as ramp loader, aircraft dispatcher, and load controller, all of which paved the way for his selection into the prestigious pilot training program.
Ryan said: “Applying for the Speedbird Pilot Academy and being selected for such a highly-competitive opportunity was a dream come true, knowing that I would finally be able to achieve the career I had always wanted. Without the assistance British Airways provided with this cadetship, I might not have ever been able to afford the current training costs, so I am thankful to them that they are able to provide this wonderful opportunity for those that might never have been able to get this far.”
Melanie Odden, also a Speedbird Pilot Academy cadet from Hertfordshire, said: “I have been fascinated by aviation since I was young and becoming a pilot has been a lifelong dream of mine, with the aspiration to one day become a training captain. Unfortunately, there have been barriers preventing me from reaching these goals. I started in a different career path and have a young family, with my little one now being three years old.
“When British Airways announced that they would be providing funded spaces for students on their Speedbird Academy I had to apply. I never thought I would become one of the lucky few. I am now three months into my training and it still doesn’t quite feel real. It is hard work, and trying to juggle family life with study can be difficult, but I know it will be worth it and I am so grateful that British Airways is giving people a chance to realise their dreams without financial barriers.”