The job

Your role as a pilot can be as varied as the aircraft you might fly. Once you’ve completed your elementary flying training, you’ll be streamed to fly fast jets, multi-engine aircraft or helicopters. As the pilot of a Typhoon, your primary role will be air-to-air combat or ground attack. In a Hercules transport aircraft, you could be sent anywhere in the world on military support or humanitarian aid missions. Flying a helicopter could involve anything from ferrying troops into combat zones to carrying out search and rescue missions.

After your elementary flying training, you’ll receive further training on the aircraft type you’ve been assigned to. You can then start getting to grips with flying that particular aircraft on a day-to-day basis.

Sponsorship

We may be able to support you by funding your studies during sixth-form or whilst you’re at University.

You can apply to join as a pilot on completion of sixth-form. A Sixth Form Scholarship of £1,000 might be available. This could be followed by a Bursary of up to £6000 during years two and three of university if you study for an approved degree. In return, we ask you to join your local Air Training Corps or Combined Cadet Force (RAF) Squadron during sixth form, or become a member of your nearest University Air Squadron (UAS) and join the RAF on completion of your university studies.

As well as financial support, joining the UAS gives you the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of working with our people, technology and aircraft – and we’ll also ensure that you get some free flying experience.

To find out more about sponsorship, contact one of our Senior Careers Liaison Officers via the careers staff at your school or college, or visit any Armed Forces Careers Office.

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