Virgin Atlantic has launched a drive to recruit pilots to its Airbus and Boeing fleets, following an increase in the airline’s network.
The initiative marks the first time the airline has recruited for pilots since 2020.
Virgin Atlantic’s first service to Austin, Texas, launched in May, and a new route to Tampa, Florida, will begin on November 3, followed by a seasonal service to Cape Town, South Africa, on November 5.
More: Virgin Atlantic sales boss expects ‘one of our best summers’
The airline has predicted it will need 100 additional pilots by summer 2023; a further 60 by summer 2024; and another 40 by summer 2025.
The airline created a holding pool during the pandemic and all the candidates who passed their interview have either re-joined or confirmed start dates, prompting Virgin Atlantic to begin recruiting externally.
In line with its TV advert championing its crew, the airline said ensuring its pilots are from diverse backgrounds is a “core priority”.
Chief people officer Estelle Hollingsworth said: “Our pilots head up our flying operation every day, making the difference that our customers see and feel when they fly Virgin Atlantic.
“Ensuring our pilot community is made up of diverse backgrounds remains a core priority for us and we welcome anyone with a genuine passion for aviation to apply for these exciting positions.”