Pathway to the flight deck 

Our scheme has been running now for over 10 years during which time we have welcomed over 30 courses of Future Second Officers into the business.  During this time, we have invested in developing and supporting our future pilots into the cockpit through our innovative scheme.  Flexibility is the key to our success and no two courses are the same, but you can expect to experience all the following when you join us. 

Brand Discovery

In this phase, we will invite our Future Second Officers to our headquarters in Leeds to find out what makes our customers choose to fly with us on their well-deserved holidays. Meeting our head office and operational teams, our Future Second Officers will understand how we plan, market, sell and deliver our flight and holiday programme.

In Flight Discovery

In this phase, our Future Second Officers will train and operate as Cabin Crew to understand and deliver our award-winning VIP service, as well as enjoy the opportunity to meet our customers. Described as one of the most enjoyable elements of the programme, this is one step closer to the flight deck.

Ground Discovery

During this phase, our Future Second Officers spend time with our famous ‘Red Team’ and the Customer Helpers who welcome our customers and make our airports run smoothly. Not forgetting the ‘Back of House’ team either! Our Future Second Officers will be right there with them in the Flight Deck during departures and turnarounds, learning how we dispatch our aircraft.

Simulator Discovery

While working through the Future Second Officer programme, it is important that our pilots maintain their flying competency. The Simulator Discovery Phase, subject to simulator availability, will create a hands-on experience and will continue the exposure to operating a jet aircraft. Future Second Officers can expect to practice general handling, raw data ILS approaches, and explore the concept of aircraft energy management.

Base Discovery

The programme concludes in the crew room, where our Future Second Officers will meet our Captains, First Officers, Trainers and base management teams. This is a great opportunity to observe briefings, get involved in aircraft setups, fly on jump seats and start to see how we operate in base. Designed to create familiarity with their soon-to-be operating base, Future Second Officers will feel more prepared for their first day on the line.