British Airways unveiled what could be its pilot class of 2022 on Wednesday, as 100 students were given the chance to give flying a go, at the airline’s headquarters near Heathrow.

The airline’s aim is to inspire and encourage the next generation to pursue a career as a British Airways pilot.

Pilots from across the airline turned out in force to welcome the students and to help them try their hand at the controls of one of the airline’s high-tech flight simulators.

The youngsters were also able to experience life in the captain's seat via virtual reality headsets.

British Airways First Officers Rebecca Panther and Amie Kirkham spoke to the students about what flight training involves and what it means to be a pilot. They also set tasks for the students focusing on the vital skills such as teamwork and communication.

The Flying Futures evening events are part of a portfolio of activities run by British Airways pilots to encourage young people into aviation; others include visits to schools, colleges and recruitment events.

The airline has been recruiting female pilots for more than 30 years and the percentage of female flight crew at the British Airways is currently more than 6%. By the end of this year, the airline will have welcomed 22 more female pilots to the team.

To find out more about opportunities currently available at BA, visit www.careers.ba.com.