Apprentice - Licensed Aircraft Engineer Cardiff

This is a four-year apprenticeship as a Licensed Aircraft Engineer, followed by Type Authorisation development in years 5-7+.

Every day in Aircraft Maintenance is different. You will work on world-class aircraft in a fast-paced operational environment where safety, teamwork and technical excellence are paramount. You will gain hands-on experience in hangars and maintenance facilities, learning from skilled engineers.

This role is part of a team that plays a critical role in connecting millions of customers globally. You will support overnight maintenance, major aircraft checks, and the introduction of new technology.

Your Development Pathway

• Year 1: Full-time college learning, supported by an introduction to the shopfloor.
• Years 2-3: A combination of day release and practical on-site experience.
• Year 4: Further workplace development, building the skills and experience needed to complete the apprenticeship.
• Years 5-7+: Continued development towards a B license and aircraft Type Approval.

Working Patterns

• Year 1: Monday to Friday, 7.5 hours per day.
• Years 2 to 7+: Shopfloor placements are based on a 4-on / 4-off pattern at 10.7 hours per day.
• Working arrangements may vary during college, classroom, type-course or other formal learning periods.

Entry Requirements

• GCSE English (A*–C / 9–4), Scottish National 5
• A Level Mathematics (England and Wales) or Higher Mathematics (Scotland); and
• A Level Physics, Engineering or Chemistry (England and Wales) or Higher Physics or Engineering Science (Scotland); or
• An equivalent Level 3 qualification, for example a Level 3 Diploma in Aeronautical or Mechanical Engineering, or a Scottish National Certificate in Engineering.
• International equivalent will be accepted.
• Right to live and work in the UK.
• Ability to meet the attendance and working-pattern requirements of the programme.

What is in it for you?

• A structured, cross-site pathway from apprenticeship entry through to licensed and type-approved aircraft engineering development.
• Hands-on experience with experienced aircraft maintenance teams and exposure to operational engineering environments.
• Salary progression after successful completion of the first year, subject to meeting development objectives.
• Uniform from year one.
• Access to the wider British Airways apprentice network.
• Opportunities to support community investment, fundraising, volunteering and outreach activity.
• Access to British Airways employee benefits, including heavily discounted flights and annual leave entitlement.

Application Process

• Complete every section of your application and all required online assessments by the published deadline.
• If successful at the initial application stage, you may be invited to complete a video interview within a specified timeframe.
• Successful candidates may then be invited to further online testing and an assessment center.
• Applications or assessments submitted after the stated deadline may be withdrawn from the process.
• Candidates can only apply for one apprenticeship across Wales, Gatwick and Glasgow.