How much input have BA had into the course start dates and how much is down to the courses scheduled by the FTOs?
BA have outlined when they want the cadets to start to fit into their schedule. APL then took these BA start dates, worked back to course start dates, and then randomly picked candidates to fill them.
If BA are effectively choosing, maybe the later dates are a result of the impending recession/BMI takeover which they think will reduce their need for pilots for a year or so?
The later course dates are merely so that BA get the cadets when they need them and will have the capacity to TR and BT them. There are also other reasons such as the FTOs' need for capacity to continue with non FPP trainees and BA's fleet expansion plans.
The BMI takeover will not affect FPP. The impending recession has been on the horizon for months, I would be incredibly surprised if BA's beancounters hadn't taken it into consideration. A short term recession is unlikely to affect long term growth and replenishment plans, such as the FPP.
Don't worry, it won't do your blood pressure any good for the impending medicals!