BA Future Pilot Programme (FPP)(Merged)
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Guys dont really know about BA culture inside but from the outside it seems they dont have lot of asian or from ethics background pilots.
Is this true?
Is this true?
At the end of the day, the recruiters do not really care about your ethnic background - they just want the right people with the potential to become future Captains.
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@capt.wierd (et al) - I don't work for BA (though I know some who do and others who used to) but I would stake my licence that your ethnic background will NOT in any way have a negative impact on your chances 
.
However, potentially related - any candidate will need a full grasp of the English language: written, aural and oral.
Separately, I'll be very interested in how the older candidates get on. I do actually believe BA when they say that they are interested in applicatons from anyone up to 55 but I will be surprised (albeit happily
) if many over 40 gets onto the scheme. For context - their old cadet scheme opened in '95 with an upper limit of 28 which was later reduced to 26. Perhaps more relevantly (to me anyway) - I was lucky enough to be able to gain a cadetship in my mid-30s and freely admit that I was a slower learner than some others with whom I trained, partly because I had spent more time becoming set in my ways (and I'm not talking re flying here).
Lastly, for those worrying about being too young or not having sufficient grades - this scheme will be around for a good few years yet (hopefully it will tick over indefinitely, like the good ol' days) so don't feel the need to throw your hat in the ring immediately. If you think about it sensibly: the most competitive it will ever be is right now, when it first opens. Why not give it time, get the grades and ensure you are 100% prepared. It's easy for me to say "what's 1 more year waiting for your dream career" but it is something worth thinking about.
Once again, the absolute best of luck to everyone who applies for the dream-scheme this time round
.
.However, potentially related - any candidate will need a full grasp of the English language: written, aural and oral.
Separately, I'll be very interested in how the older candidates get on. I do actually believe BA when they say that they are interested in applicatons from anyone up to 55 but I will be surprised (albeit happily
) if many over 40 gets onto the scheme. For context - their old cadet scheme opened in '95 with an upper limit of 28 which was later reduced to 26. Perhaps more relevantly (to me anyway) - I was lucky enough to be able to gain a cadetship in my mid-30s and freely admit that I was a slower learner than some others with whom I trained, partly because I had spent more time becoming set in my ways (and I'm not talking re flying here).Lastly, for those worrying about being too young or not having sufficient grades - this scheme will be around for a good few years yet (hopefully it will tick over indefinitely, like the good ol' days) so don't feel the need to throw your hat in the ring immediately. If you think about it sensibly: the most competitive it will ever be is right now, when it first opens. Why not give it time, get the grades and ensure you are 100% prepared. It's easy for me to say "what's 1 more year waiting for your dream career" but it is something worth thinking about.
Once again, the absolute best of luck to everyone who applies for the dream-scheme this time round
.
Last edited by BusinessMan; 12th Aug 2011 at 10:07.
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I Don't have the GCSE grades. I know there is little chance, however there is no harm in applying though. Never know if you don't try!
I have done well so far without them (been in Aviation for years. Currently a Dispatcher who is not scared of a manual load sheet), I applied to NATS earlier in the year, They stated GCSE A-C. I put my grades in (which are lower) and passed that selection phase. So all is not lost. (though failed miserably on the tests haha 
)
To be on the safe side. I might as well try and re-take them. Something that will be looked into
Good luck to all.
I have done well so far without them (been in Aviation for years. Currently a Dispatcher who is not scared of a manual load sheet
), I applied to NATS earlier in the year, They stated GCSE A-C. I put my grades in (which are lower) and passed that selection phase. So all is not lost. (though failed miserably on the tests haha )To be on the safe side. I might as well try and re-take them. Something that will be looked into
Good luck to all.
Last edited by kazzie; 11th Aug 2011 at 22:03.
I have to concur with the Businessman
I would love to apply but my grades arn't sufficient either. I have already planned to start my Engineering Degree this year so I think I will continue with that even though I am 25 and look into this scheme in a few years time again when I have finished. I only noticed there now that this will be running for a few years, fantastic news indeed. Though I doubt I would be able to apply anyway with having the University Debt on my shoulders.
All the very best to everyone that applies and looking forward to hearing from the successful applicants on here in the future.
I would love to apply but my grades arn't sufficient either. I have already planned to start my Engineering Degree this year so I think I will continue with that even though I am 25 and look into this scheme in a few years time again when I have finished. I only noticed there now that this will be running for a few years, fantastic news indeed. Though I doubt I would be able to apply anyway with having the University Debt on my shoulders.
All the very best to everyone that applies and looking forward to hearing from the successful applicants on here in the future.
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BA arnt actually sponsoring this as such, you got 2 options.
1. You pay then the gaurentee amount of £84,000 then they give you £12,000 back every year for 7 years.
2. or... you can apply for a non interest free loan through BA to cover the 84,000
1. You pay then the gaurentee amount of £84,000 then they give you £12,000 back every year for 7 years.
2. or... you can apply for a non interest free loan through BA to cover the 84,000
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You guys make me laugh, BA is the most diverse multi community ethnical company I have ever worked for if you get me!
Seriously. Unbelievable mix of great cultures in a great company. The FPP will not give a second thought to your background. They will choose the best and only the best. If you are not good enough you will not get through........simples
Seriously. Unbelievable mix of great cultures in a great company. The FPP will not give a second thought to your background. They will choose the best and only the best. If you are not good enough you will not get through........simples
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@340Yumyum thanks for being so much more succinct than I and yet making me laugh out loud at the same time .. what I was trying to say was... 
@Davy07 - fellow Rotorhead (), well said (...I would say that though wouldn't I 
). However, hopefully Uni debt won't hold you back too much come the time as you wouldn't have to repay until earning a sensible wage (?).
For those worried about the cost of the selection process itself - valid point, but remember that if you are realistic with the £numbers then you need to find a lot more than that in order to do this scheme (look realistically at the living costs etc). I am not trying to dissaude anyone, just bring some practical reality to the discussion.
@Davy07 - fellow Rotorhead (
), well said (...I would say that though wouldn't I ). However, hopefully Uni debt won't hold you back too much come the time as you wouldn't have to repay until earning a sensible wage (?).For those worried about the cost of the selection process itself - valid point, but remember that if you are realistic with the £numbers then you need to find a lot more than that in order to do this scheme (look realistically at the living costs etc). I am not trying to dissaude anyone, just bring some practical reality to the discussion.
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It's great to see this scheme being advertised, although for me and all the other low houred f/ATPL holders that have qualified over the last 2-3 years and have still not got a job, it isn't much use.
Also according to BA's education requirements, I'm way too thick to be a pilot, however I hold a CPL/IR with 1st time passes in everything but 1 ATPL exam that I re-took a month later and got the highest mark in the class. I'm in my mid 30's and passed the ground school course that people in their late teens/early 20's were struggling with as they were more interested in going out and getting p
ed. I also passed all the flying training first time, that other way more highly educated people were struggling with and they failed some of the tests, yet because of the BA education requirements I wouldn't even stand a chance at flying a plane, but I am proof that education means nothing when it comes to flight training, yet I wouldn't even get a chance to sell myself as I'd fall at the first hurdle.
BA would save themselves a lot of time and money by giving us f/ATPL holders a chance. All we need is a t/r and we're away. We could be recruited and on line in a little over 2-3 months.
Good luck to those that do apply and get through.
Also according to BA's education requirements, I'm way too thick to be a pilot, however I hold a CPL/IR with 1st time passes in everything but 1 ATPL exam that I re-took a month later and got the highest mark in the class. I'm in my mid 30's and passed the ground school course that people in their late teens/early 20's were struggling with as they were more interested in going out and getting p
ed. I also passed all the flying training first time, that other way more highly educated people were struggling with and they failed some of the tests, yet because of the BA education requirements I wouldn't even stand a chance at flying a plane, but I am proof that education means nothing when it comes to flight training, yet I wouldn't even get a chance to sell myself as I'd fall at the first hurdle.BA would save themselves a lot of time and money by giving us f/ATPL holders a chance. All we need is a t/r and we're away. We could be recruited and on line in a little over 2-3 months.
Good luck to those that do apply and get through.
Last edited by NukeHunt; 19th Aug 2011 at 23:46.
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There's a lot of talk on here about people with obviously relevant degrees such as engineering. What do you think the chances are of somebody with good academics and work experience but not much in the way of relevant credentials?
Last edited by hamptindle; 1st Nov 2011 at 17:18.
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Good luck to all that apply, I have to admit reading some of the qualifications and experience some of you guys have is quite intimidating but admirable!
I would love to fly on the other side of the flight deck door for a change, and I am in awe everytime I enter...however.... I only have 6 GSCE's at grade A, and 4 at grade B, and whilst I meet the requirements at GCSE level, I only have one A level in English Literature at grade C, and 2 AS levels at grades B -Art & D-Geography. I also have no flying experience.
I think that this will always be a dream I am never able to fulfill, however encouragement from some members of flight deck makes me think I may be able to get there somehow, and I will always have it in the back of my mind if I don't at least attempt to do it...I really do not know if it's a world in which I will never fit into though...
I would love to fly on the other side of the flight deck door for a change, and I am in awe everytime I enter...however.... I only have 6 GSCE's at grade A, and 4 at grade B, and whilst I meet the requirements at GCSE level, I only have one A level in English Literature at grade C, and 2 AS levels at grades B -Art & D-Geography. I also have no flying experience.
I think that this will always be a dream I am never able to fulfill, however encouragement from some members of flight deck makes me think I may be able to get there somehow, and I will always have it in the back of my mind if I don't at least attempt to do it...I really do not know if it's a world in which I will never fit into though...
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Flygirl91: If you want this bad enough, you need to go and get those 2 A-Levels at a minimum of grade B. Maybe at the same time, visit the local flying club and get stuck in. This will demonstrate some willingness and determination to get on the programme.
Maybe have a few trial flying lessons to see if flying an aeroplane is as rosy as sitting in the back of one. For some, it's very different.
Go on, you're only 20
Maybe have a few trial flying lessons to see if flying an aeroplane is as rosy as sitting in the back of one. For some, it's very different.
Go on, you're only 20
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Cat food is spot on.
BA is a business and like most others, its objective is to maximise profit for its share holders. Yes, there's some flying going on; but what they really want are future team leaders that have a head for business and great customer service. You've no doubt noticed the emphasis that BA put on 'Customer Focus'.
Hamtindle, your paper work sounds very good indeed, sell your strengths and business experience to the panel and you could go far. Good luck
BA is a business and like most others, its objective is to maximise profit for its share holders. Yes, there's some flying going on; but what they really want are future team leaders that have a head for business and great customer service. You've no doubt noticed the emphasis that BA put on 'Customer Focus'.
Hamtindle, your paper work sounds very good indeed, sell your strengths and business experience to the panel and you could go far. Good luck
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I'm so excited.
Guys/Girls,
Hands down this scheme is definately the best thing to come our way in the last decade!!
I'm so excited and will definaetly be giving it my best shot when the application form goes live. I am both nervous and intimidated by how fierce the competition will be, but at the end of the day, ONLY BA know what they are looking for. We can only do our best and give it our all.
As previously mentioned, there could be a pool of ex-RAF students applying in addition to those currently at the chosen FTO's. I personally am not going to dwell on this as I believe (as also previously said) that BA will be looking for little experience and anything above could work against them. I think this is a massive kick in teeth to those who have got off their backside to work towards their dream, but it also allows those who have not had the funding to have their chance at the dream.
Im hoping my credentials are what BA are looking for. My only worry is the "excuse" i should have for not having done more flying in my time. I could come across as one of those people who 'talk but don't do'. I don't think self-inflicted short-sightedness due to unhealthy amount of MS Flight Sim counts
Either way, best of luck everyone and I think we should all be very supportive of eachother. I think it's very important (as stipulated on the BA FPP pages) that you DONT share any application or assesment information with anyone here as it will put you at a disadvantage and unfair advantage to those behind you. Words of encouragment are more than enough.
Good luck evryeone!
Hands down this scheme is definately the best thing to come our way in the last decade!!
I'm so excited and will definaetly be giving it my best shot when the application form goes live. I am both nervous and intimidated by how fierce the competition will be, but at the end of the day, ONLY BA know what they are looking for. We can only do our best and give it our all.
As previously mentioned, there could be a pool of ex-RAF students applying in addition to those currently at the chosen FTO's. I personally am not going to dwell on this as I believe (as also previously said) that BA will be looking for little experience and anything above could work against them. I think this is a massive kick in teeth to those who have got off their backside to work towards their dream, but it also allows those who have not had the funding to have their chance at the dream.
Im hoping my credentials are what BA are looking for. My only worry is the "excuse" i should have for not having done more flying in my time. I could come across as one of those people who 'talk but don't do'. I don't think self-inflicted short-sightedness due to unhealthy amount of MS Flight Sim counts
Either way, best of luck everyone and I think we should all be very supportive of eachother. I think it's very important (as stipulated on the BA FPP pages) that you DONT share any application or assesment information with anyone here as it will put you at a disadvantage and unfair advantage to those behind you. Words of encouragment are more than enough.
Good luck evryeone!
Last edited by Roger-Wilco; 19th Sep 2011 at 14:12.
Glad this has finally come out, have been hearing about it for a few weeks now through the woodwork.
I have all the required GCSE's & A Levels to apply, which is nice...
Only issue is, the 120 hours logged at PPL level, for instance I went to apply for the Flybe/Oxford partnership, to find out you could only apply with a maximum of 60 hours previous experience, any ideas if BA will have a cut off, as not to pick up bad habits learnt early on.
Bad times if so!
I have all the required GCSE's & A Levels to apply, which is nice...
Only issue is, the 120 hours logged at PPL level, for instance I went to apply for the Flybe/Oxford partnership, to find out you could only apply with a maximum of 60 hours previous experience, any ideas if BA will have a cut off, as not to pick up bad habits learnt early on.
Bad times if so!
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I am loving this thread, isn't it nice how a bit of good news brings everyone together . So much positivity and encouragement. It's a shame that all airlines aren't doing similar schemes because this is the way it should be, who knows maybe BA will lead they way and set an example for others!
. So much positivity and encouragement. It's a shame that all airlines aren't doing similar schemes because this is the way it should be, who knows maybe BA will lead they way and set an example for others!
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As somebody who went through the cadetship scheme in 1990 at Prestwick and is now online at BA flying 777s, may I humbly make the following observations having read through some posts on the thread:
Posts along the lines of "I have the following qualifications but wonder if they are too business orientated?" etc..
- If you meet the basic requirements as laid out in the scheme documentation, and your application form is well presented then it is likely you will get an interview. When I applied in 1990 we allegedly had around 33,000 applicants for about 200 places. The application form alone weeds out a considerable number of people who, even though they don't meet the application criteria, still apply.
This isn't meant to say that if you don't meet the criteria then you are unable to pass the course or fly aircraft, it's simply a method of reducing the applicant numbers to something that is manageable for selection.
I've read a couple of posts along the lines of "It will be running for a few years so go to Uni first and then apply afterwards".
In 1990 I had a place at Manchester University and withdrew to commence pilot training at Prestwick. If I had gone to university then I would have missed out as the cadetship scheme closed during my time training at Prestwick.
As it currently stands, seniority affects EVERY aspect of your life within BA, from which trips you can expect to get, to which fleet you are able to bid on to, and also affects your time to command. I would HIGHLY recommend getting in at your first available opportunity.
This is a golden opportunity.... If you want the job then apply! Be positive, do your homework as to what to expect during selection and go for it!
BA is a wonderful place to work, the job is fantastic, well paid, and hugely enjoyable and I regularly thank my lucky stars that I go to work and get paid for doing a job that I genuinely enjoy.
I will answer any questions I can if you have any burning ones...
Posts along the lines of "I have the following qualifications but wonder if they are too business orientated?" etc..
- If you meet the basic requirements as laid out in the scheme documentation, and your application form is well presented then it is likely you will get an interview. When I applied in 1990 we allegedly had around 33,000 applicants for about 200 places. The application form alone weeds out a considerable number of people who, even though they don't meet the application criteria, still apply.
This isn't meant to say that if you don't meet the criteria then you are unable to pass the course or fly aircraft, it's simply a method of reducing the applicant numbers to something that is manageable for selection.
I've read a couple of posts along the lines of "It will be running for a few years so go to Uni first and then apply afterwards".
In 1990 I had a place at Manchester University and withdrew to commence pilot training at Prestwick. If I had gone to university then I would have missed out as the cadetship scheme closed during my time training at Prestwick.
As it currently stands, seniority affects EVERY aspect of your life within BA, from which trips you can expect to get, to which fleet you are able to bid on to, and also affects your time to command. I would HIGHLY recommend getting in at your first available opportunity.
This is a golden opportunity.... If you want the job then apply! Be positive, do your homework as to what to expect during selection and go for it!
BA is a wonderful place to work, the job is fantastic, well paid, and hugely enjoyable and I regularly thank my lucky stars that I go to work and get paid for doing a job that I genuinely enjoy.
I will answer any questions I can if you have any burning ones...
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Without the appeal of a possible chance at getting into BA I would imagine the non-tagged intakes at integrated schools will drop off somewhat. This should hopefully force other airlines to go down the mentored/sponsored/finance assistance route if they want quality cadet FOs. Ryanair, easyJet and P2F has never looked so unappealing.
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i probably dont have a chance of getting in because of my GCSE's. I was bullied at school badly so it affected my studies, therefore i only got 10 GCSE's. 5 grade C, 4 D's an E and an F. And the D was in English, only because its all stupid analysing books and poems. Totally pointless.
However i went on to also complete a BTEC National Diploma in Computer Studies and a BSc (Hons) degree in Internet Technologies and Applications.
However i went on to also complete a BTEC National Diploma in Computer Studies and a BSc (Hons) degree in Internet Technologies and Applications.