burger-style menu icon
AIRCREW
Aircrew are required to fly and fight, working with forces in the Air, Land, Maritime, Space, and Cyber domains to deliver UK Air Power.
View Aircrew roles
WHO ARE
AIRCREW?

Aircrew manage all aircraft whilst in operation. Whether a Pilot in the cockpit of a fighter jet, or a Weapon Systems Operator overseeing sensors and gathering intelligence, it’s their responsibility to keep those in the air and on the ground safe.

 

As Aircrew you’ll work on board aircraft to provide support for ground forces, with the opportunity to fly fighter jets conducting air-to-air combat and ground attack missions. We will train you and support the development of your expertise through targeted training and certification. These skills will be crucial to the success of our missions but are also invaluable within the wider world.

OFFICER
ROLES
You’ll need leadership skills in addition to your technical proficiency, be it flying a fast jet or commanding an airborne suite of advanced sensors.
AVIATOR
ROLES
You could be supporting the pilots of a medevac helicopter, supervising the airborne delivery of supplies or aid to anywhere in the world or you could be operating sophisticated sensors to gain intelligence and support fast jet missions.
Learn about Aircrew

Being a member of the Aircrew Profession opens up a world of opportunities. As a Pilot you could be seated in the cockpit of a number of military aircraft, from fighter jets to multi-engine transport and helicopters. As a Weapon Systems Operator you’ll be managing the sensors and weapons of aircraft during operational missions whilst you gather intelligence to support forces on the ground.

 

As an Officer you could take on the role of Weapon Systems Officer overseeing a mission crew of highly capable Weapon Systems Operators to ensure each mission is a success, be a pilot or even an RPAS Pilot controlling The Reaper, a remotely piloted intelligence aircraft.

RAF Pilot walking across snow-covered grass to F35B jet on concrete apron
RAF A400 Atlas flying low over sea
Get paid to train, travel the world and make friends for life

Life in the RAF is more than just a job, it’s a vocation and a lifestyle, it’s who you are. We take care of you when you’re off the clock too. We offer a highly competitive benefits package and there are sporting opportunities and facilities available to everyone. Balance is key. So whilst travelling the world, making new friends and expanding your horizons all come included, we understand the importance of staying connected to friends and family back home too.

In-service degree

For those considering University, a career as Aircrew can complement that academic ambition. Our free BSc in Aviation Systems Management can be studied at the UK Armed Forces Military Aviation Academy while you earn and learn with the RAF without the need for a student loan.

RAF Weapon Systems Officer with headset aboard P-8 Poseidon aircraft
WHY JOIN
THE RAF?

Thanks to subsidised food, travel, accommodation and free gym you get more money in your pocket.

Benefits icon for Rent from £75p/m
Rent from £75p/m
Benefits icon for Free gym
Free gym
Benefits icon for Subsidised food
Subsidised food
Benefits icon for Health care
Health care
Benefits icon for World travel
World travel
Benefits icon for Training
Training
See all benefits
AIRCREW
FAQs
What qualifications do I need for Aircrew roles?

To apply for an Aircrew Officer role you need to:

  • Be aged between 17.5 and 25, however, the exact range will depend on the role.
    Have GCSEs at grade C/4-5 or above; or SNE equivalent grade 5 or above in Mathematics, English Language and three other subjects.
  • In addition, you need at least 2 A2 Levels/3 Highers at Grade C or above (excluding General Studies or Critical Thinking) which must total a minimum of 64 UCAS points.
  • Alternatively, if you hold a UK degree at Grade 2:2 or higher (or acceptable alternative) you only need Mathematics and English Language GCSEs at a minimum of Grade C (Grade 4 to 5 with effect from Aug 17) or Mathematics and English Language SCE Standard Grades of 2 or SNE Grade 5.
  • You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or holder of dual UK/ other nationality.

 

To apply for an Aircrew Aviator role you need to:

  • Be aged between 17.5 and 28.
  • Have GCSEs at grade C/4-5 or above; or SNE equivalent grade 5 or above in Mathematics, English Language and three other subjects. **
  • The exact nationality and residency requirements will depend on the individual role. However, at a minimum, you must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or holder of dual UK/other nationality.
  • Additionally, whether or not you were born in the UK, you should have resided there for the 5 years immediately preceding your application.
  • The requirements for other roles will vary so check individual role pages for the exact requirements.

** Linguist roles will also need a modern language, although evidence of an ability to learn languages without a formal qualification may be acceptable.

 

Do I need to be physically fit for Aircrew roles?
  • Every person in the RAF is required to maintain a level of fitness to complete both initial and specialist training, and to do their role effectively. The exact fitness requirements will depend on your role, age and gender.
  • Fitness is a key part of RAF life – with all the clubs and sports you can get involved with on a wide variety of levels, from occasional fun to Olympic competition.
Where will I be based?

Aircrew roles are spread across RAF bases all over the UK and abroad. Where you will be exactly is dependent on your role and what each base currently requires. Please contact us for more information.