Hi.
I'm 16 and when i first got interested into becoming a commercial pilot thats what i initially thought - 'you have to be really good at maths and the other techinal subjects i.e physics, chemistry'. however i've learnt that you can become a pilot with just average grades, thats if you pay for your own training.
The only time people harp on about having maths and physics is when it comes to doing the atpl theory work, having those subjects under you belt helps you apparently.
Some people say the most complex maths you'll ever need will be the GCSE stuff!
Ba dont offer sponsorships anymore, so i wouldnt worry about what they want! The closest thing to a sponsorship nowadays is the CTC (where you have to put £60k bond) or the Flybe one (around £30k). I think sponsorships are good but you have to show your really motivated and determined, after all there are so many applicants to choose from. I think when it comes to selecting people on CTC the rate that get selected is around 2-4% i believe
. I think the sponsors do look for you to have good/average grades at school but i dont think they're really bothered in what subjects. They like to see you have an aptitude to learn basically.
However grades arent the only thing that come into selection, by gosh no. There are a whole range of other things. you have to be the right person in terms of personality - would the sponsor want to be sitting in a confined cockpit for 8 hours or so with you?! i believe airlines also look for team skills, initiative, leadership, the ability to learn quickly, motivation, confidence etc, these are all skills required to become a pilot.
To improve these skills i have taken up extra curricular activities sich as the air cadets, and am also starting the duke of edinburgh award.
I'm sure people on pprune will elaborate on what i have said, or add anything i may have missed out, but basically grades aren't eveything in becoming a pilot!