The flag carrier airline of the United Kingdom headed up the fully-funded scheme - which offers 100 aspiring pilots the chance to train free of charge - received more than 20,000 applications in 2024 and now bosses are thrilled to be able to offer the the opportunity up again.

British Airways’ Director of Flight Operations Simon Cheadle, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be able to open the door to a flying career to more people through this programme.

“We know from the overwhelming response and high standard of applications we had in the first year of Speedbird Pilot Academy, that there are a lot of talented people who just need a little bit of help to achieve their dream of becoming a commercial airline pilot – and we are pleased to give them that opportunity."

Cheadle added that they are keen to attract the "very best flying talent" as they try to secure the future of aviation for years to come.

He said: "We want to continue to attract the very best flying talent and our investment in this programme will help to ensure our future generation of pilots for years to come.”

On average, it costs one individual £100,000 to train as a pilot and this will be entirely met by the corporation.

Applications for the new scheme are now open.