Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Fly iconic routes and lead exceptional flying experiences with a focus on safety and professionalism.
- Company: Join Virgin Atlantic, the UK's only long-haul airline with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible contracts, private medical scheme, and generous pension contributions.
- Why this job: Experience the thrill of flying advanced aircraft while shaping your career in aviation.
- Qualifications: 1500+ hours flight time, current UK Class One Medical, and ATPL licence required.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion with clear progression pathways.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Airbus First Officer/Senior First Officer
Join to apply for the Airbus First Officer/Senior First Officer role at Virgin Atlantic
Fleet Type: Airbus
Contract: Permanent
Location: London Heathrow
We\’re not like other airlines. As the UK’s only long-haul airline, you’ll fly out of Heathrow to some of the world’s most iconic destinations. When it comes to office views, our pilots have the best seat in the house, flying some of the world’s most technologically advanced aircraft, including the A330 Neo and Airbus A350-1000.
Day to day
In this role, you will showcase exceptional aircraft-handling skills backed by comprehensive procedural and technical knowledge. Your strong leadership will fuel your passion and drive, preparing you to become a future Commander at Virgin Atlantic.
As a motivated, high-performing pilot, you’ll provide our customers with an outstanding flying experience, upholding operational excellence in the air while maintaining our rigorous safety standards. You\’ll lead by example, making values-driven decisions both in-flight and on the ground, ensuring every journey reflects the highest level of professionalism.
About you
Being a great pilot at Virgin Atlantic takes more than technical expertise — it starts with who you are in and out of the flight deck.
Teamwork is at the heart of every successful flight, so collaboration, great communication skills, respect, and leadership are essential. A passion for aviation and a commitment to safety, service, and continuous learning are what set our pilots apart.
Technical requirements
- A minimum experience of 1500 hours (FO)/ 3000 hours (SFO) of flight time on a multi-pilot turbojet or a multi-pilot turbo-prop aeroplane, having a maximum take-off mass of not less than 10 tonnes or a certificated passenger seating configuration of more than 19 passengers.
- Current and Qualified on the A320, A330, A350 or A380
- Hold a current UK Class One Medical
- Unfrozen ATPL licence issued by the UK CAA, with a valid type rating when joining us.
- The ability to demonstrate a high level of proficiency in English (certified as ICAO level 6 English Proficiency when applying)
What we offer
At Virgin Atlantic, we’re dedicated to supporting our pilots\’ development and wellbeing. From competitive salaries and secure contracts to world-class training and clear pathways for progression to Senior First Officer and Captain, we provide everything you need to build a rewarding and long-term career in the skies.
As part of the Virgin Atlantic team, you’ll enjoy a range of rewards designed to support you both in and out of the flight deck.
- Flexible contract options after 12 months – contracts that give you the work/life balance you want
- Command opportunities within 7-9 years
- Private Medical Scheme
- Access to our employee assistance programme and Digital GP service
- Life Insurance and Income Protection
- Loss of license cover, including injury and illness
- Generous contributory pension scheme (up to 15% company contribution)
- Virgin Group Discounts
- Red Rewards – your gateway to an array of exclusive discounts
- A high-energy work environment that supports diversity, equity, and inclusion and several internal networks for support, guidance, and assistance in the workplace
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Management and Other
Industries: Airlines and Aviation
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Airbus First Officer/Senior First Officer employer: Virgin Atlantic
Contact Detail:
Virgin Atlantic Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Airbus First Officer/Senior First Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Connect with fellow pilots and industry professionals on LinkedIn or at aviation events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios specific to flying. We recommend simulating a cockpit environment with a friend to get comfortable discussing your aircraft-handling skills and leadership experiences.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for aviation! During interviews, share stories that highlight your commitment to safety and service. This will help you stand out as someone who truly embodies the values of Virgin Atlantic.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Virgin Atlantic family.
We think you need these skills to ace Airbus First Officer/Senior First Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your flight hours and any relevant aircraft experience right at the start. We want to see your qualifications shine through, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your application for Virgin Atlantic. Mention our values and how you embody them in your flying career. This shows us that you’re not just looking for any job, but you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team.
Be Professional Yet Personal: While we love professionalism, don’t forget to let your personality come through! Share your passion for aviation and what drives you as a pilot. We’re looking for team players who can lead with both skill and heart.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it’s super easy and straightforward – just like flying with us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Virgin Atlantic
✨Know Your Aircraft
Make sure you brush up on the technical specifications and handling characteristics of the Airbus A330 Neo and A350-1000. Being able to discuss these aircraft confidently will show your passion for aviation and your readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you demonstrated strong leadership and teamwork. Highlight situations where you made values-driven decisions, as this aligns with what Virgin Atlantic looks for in their pilots.
✨Master the Safety Standards
Familiarise yourself with the rigorous safety standards that Virgin Atlantic upholds. Be ready to discuss how you prioritise safety in your flying and how you would handle any potential in-flight challenges.
✨Practice Your Communication
Effective communication is key in aviation. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, especially when discussing complex scenarios. This will help you demonstrate your ability to lead and collaborate effectively in the cockpit.
