BRITISH Airways is one of the biggest airlines in the UK and is known for being the nation’s flag carrier airline.
Working as a pilot for the company is one of the most prestigious jobs in the business. But how much do BA’s pilots get paid?
How Much Do British Airways Pilots Get Paid?
British Airways pilots are among the highest-paid airline pilots in the UK.
A newly qualified First Officer at British Airways can expect to earn a starting salary of around £32,000 to £40,000 per year, depending on experience and the aircraft they are flying.
As pilots gain more experience and move up to the rank of Captain, their salaries increase significantly.
Captains at British Airways typically earn between £100,000 and £167,000 annually, with some senior Captains earning even more.
Salaries can also include additional benefits such as allowances, bonuses, and pension contributions.
What is the Highest Paying UK Airline for Pilots?
Virgin Atlantic pays its First Officers between £45,000 and £70,000 per year, depending on seniority and the routes they fly.
Captains at Virgin Atlantic can earn between £120,000 and £160,000 annually.
This means that Virgin and BA are the highest paying airlines for UK pilots.
Ryanair, known for its low-cost operations, offers First Officers a starting salary of around £30,000 to £50,000.
However, experienced Captains can earn upwards of £100,000, with some reportedly earning as much as £150,000.
EasyJet offers salaries ranging from £40,000 to £65,000 for First Officers, while Captains typically earn between £100,000 and £145,000 annually.
For pilots flying private jets or working with cargo airlines like DHL or FedEx, salaries can climb even higher, with some Captains earning over £200,000 per year.
How Do I Become a British Airways Pilot?
To become a British Airways pilot, you will need to obtain a commercial pilot’s licence (CPL) with a multi-engine instrument rating.
This typically involves completing flight training at an accredited flight school, which can cost upwards of £100,000.
British Airways also runs its own cadet programme, which allows aspiring pilots to train with the airline directly.
Applicants must meet strict medical and academic requirements, including strong GCSE and A-level results.
Once qualified, pilots often start their careers flying for regional airlines or smaller carriers to gain experience before joining a major airline like British Airways.
