BRITISH AIRWAYS speedbird self-sponsored pathway
START YOUR CAREER WITH THE UK’S LEADING AIRLINE
Skyborne Airline Academy – your pathway to a British Airways flight deck. Skyborne has been selected by British Airways to support two of their pilot pathways. As the official UK partner for the Speedbird Pilot Academy, we are delighted to also be offering the Speedbird Self-Sponsored Pathway (SSP), giving you the opportunity to receive a conditional offer from British Airways before you even start your training!
British Airways is focussed on improving accessibility to achieving a career as an airline pilot. SSP will provide not only a sense of security knowing a career is in place at the end of training but will also provide you with support throughout your training process.
This exciting route to the British Airways flight deck has some unique features that are not available anywhere else, including training at one of the leading flight schools in the World!
Start your journey to your dream airline career.
Key Features
The benefits of training at Skyborne include:
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Expert support through your training and assessments from our selection team and two British Airways liaison pilots.
BA approved flight
training facility
Purpose built training centres and accommodation in the UK and U.S.
Airline focussed training
Using a combination of tried and tested methods used in the airlines and the latest technology we provide the best training possible.
Inclusive prices
With no hidden extras.
SKYBORNE PERFORMANCE PROTECTION
Additional support for Integrated ATPL trainees if needed *T&C’s apply.
UWL BsC Hons degree
Optional addition with Skyborne’s Integrated ATPL course.
Fantastic Locations
Train at the busiest general aviation airport in the UK and year round sunshine in Florida.
Regular Intakes
Frequent course start dates, offering greater flexibility.
Exceptional Pass Rates
Industry leading pass rates across all training phases.
Wellbeing support
Professional support and resources to protect your mental wellbeing.
Your pathway to British Airways
There is a selection process to undertake for the British Airways Speedbird Self-Sponsored Pathway (SSP). We have listed the high-level steps below for reference. Please scroll through the steps.
For more information, visit our FAQs section or hit ‘Contact Us’ and a Skyborne Flight Training Advisor will get in touch and answer your questions.
Application requirements
In order to apply, candidates will need:
- Education
6 GCSE’s (or equivalent), Grade A-C or 5-9 (including English, Maths and one of the Sciences) or equivalent.
- Eligibility criteria
You must be between 1.57m (5'2") and 1.91m (6'3") tall. Your height will be accurately determined during the assessment process.
Those taller than 1.91m may submit an application but will be required to undergo a functionality check to confirm their ability to meet the requirements of the seating positions in the British Airways fleet of aircraft.
Tattoos are permissible as long as they are not on the hands, face or head.
- Nationality
You must hold a valid passport (with minimum of 12 months before expiry date at time of joining) allowing unrestricted worldwide travel. You must have the unrestricted right to live and work in the UK without sponsorship.
- MEDICAL requirements
A current and valid unrestricted UK CAA Class 1 Medical Certificate and FAA Class 3 Medical Certificate is required before the commencement of training. You must have a good level of physical fitness, and the ability to satisfy British Airways medical requirements.
- Language
You must be fluent in English – both written and spoken. As a guide, you must be proficient enough to achieve ICAO Level 6 or IELTS Level 5.5 (academic).
Technical skills are important, but it’s your behaviour as a British Airways pilot that will really set you apart. British Airways is unique, their pilots are very passionate and enthusiastic about the role they have in connecting Britain with the world and the world with Britain.
You’ll need to demonstrate the passion and motivation to excel during the training programme, the ability to remain calm under pressure and a strong ability to solve problems. Collaborating and demonstrating you’re a team player is also essential to create incredible experiences for your customers and colleagues on board.
Testimonials
Will Crowther, Skyborne Trainee
"Skyborne is full of passionate, high quality, caring individuals. I chose Skyborne because it was personal, providing exceptional quality and a high standard of training. For those of you thinking of training at Skyborne, I couldn’t recommend it enough. I have loved every single moment of my time here and have certainly made a lot of friends for life."
Jack Cantwell, Skyborne Trainee
"Walking into Skyborne HQ every morning makes me proud to be training here. The balance between professional and family feel is important and Skyborne has got it just right. Ground school was a brutal part of training but the immense support, knowledge and jokes from the TKIs are what motivated me through the exams. My five months in Vero Beach were arguably the best time of my life. There was nothing better than flying with your mates in the morning, followed by exploring the state or relaxing by the pool. I can safely say that training at Skyborne was the best decision."
Nick Smith, DHL, former Skyborne Trainee
“I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Skyborne. All the team were so supportive from day one, all the way through to securing my first airline job.
The instructors were so helpful and the airline-focused training has really helped me in my initial training in the airline industry.”
Bradley Gibbs, Eastern Airways, former Skyborne Trainee
“From meeting the Skyborne team at industry events, I knew that this was where I wanted to complete my commercial flight training. The DA-42 aircraft that I trained on were awesome and the instructor team were so experienced in this area. The final, all-important element was finding a job. When I secured an assessment with Eastern Airways, the Skyborne team remained on hand to assist with interview and simulator assessment preparation. Now that my type rating and base training are complete, I can say that all the effort has been worth it.”
Further Questions?
For more information about the Speedbird Self-Sponsored Pathway, please read our frequently asked questions section.
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