Airlines

British Airways’ Speedbird Pilot Academy opens for new applications

On Tuesday, April 16, 2024, the airline will start the application window for its fully financed Speedbird Pilot Academy cadet programme, which will run for second year.

This comes after an extraordinary response to its first year intake, where more than 20,000 applications were received for just 100 places. Aiming to level the playing field and remove the previously prohibitive cost barrier of individuals having to pay for their own training, the Speedbird Pilot Academy initiative is part of the airline’s £7 billion investment across the business.

Simon Cheadle, Director of Flight Operations at British Airways, stated: “We’re quite proud to be able to give more people access to a career in aviation through this programme.”

“We are glad to provide this opportunity to many talented individuals who simply need a little assistance to fulfil their dream of becoming a commercial airline pilot. We know this from the tremendous response and high calibre of applications we had in the first year of Speedbird Pilot Academy.

“Our investment in this programme will help to ensure our future generation of pilots for years to come. We want to continue attracting the best flying talent.” Candidates will be able to apply for up to 100 places on the programme – that will see the approximate £100,000 cost of their training covered entirely by the airline – through the British Airways careers site from April 16, 2024.

Airlines

British Airways Unveils Its Brand-New First Class Cabin for the Airbus A380

British Airways has introduced its brand-new First Class seat, blending sleek design with expert British craftsmanship. Reflecting modern British luxury travel, this new cabin is part of the airline’s Airbus A380 retrofit plans, set to take flight in mid-2026.

The updated First Class cabin has been crafted to feel like a modern luxury hotel in the sky, complete with cozy touches and thoughtful British details.

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Designed by top experts from across Great Britain and Ireland—including London, Glasgow, West Yorkshire, Kilkeel, and Dublin—the seat reflects the best of British design and quality.

Features and Comforts
The new First Class seat is ultra-wide at 36.5 inches, with a bed length of 79 inches for ultimate comfort. It includes:

A multi-purpose ottoman and stowable table.
A 32-inch 4K TV screen.
Adjustable mood lighting with modes like “relax,” “dine,” and “cinema.”
A cocooned 60-inch curved wall for privacy while maintaining a spacious feel.

Passengers traveling together can enjoy a shared experience with a sliding divider that creates a lounge-like space. The stowable tables also allow for “buddy dining,” where two people can dine together.

The cabin’s flowing curves, inspired by the iconic Concorde wings, create a welcoming and stylish environment. Additionally, passengers can now wheel their luggage directly into their personal storage space, making settling in easier.

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British Airways carefully considered customer feedback when designing this cabin. The seat includes practical storage and features like a fully rectangular bed for home-like comfort. Every detail, from usability to elegance, has been designed to enhance the travel experience.

British Airways is proud to be the only UK-based European airline offering a First Class product across the Atlantic. british airways premium economy and First Class travelers enjoy exclusive perks such as stylish seats, access to luxury lounges, fast-track security, and the First Wing at Heathrow. The airline ensures a premium experience from booking to landing.

This cabin upgrade is part of British Airways’ £7 billion investment in improving customer experiences. The airline has already introduced over 120 initiatives, including new short-haul seats, free onboard Wi-Fi messaging, and refreshed lounges worldwide.