Aviation: Training

Ministry of Defence written question – answered at on 19 February 2026.

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Photo of Lord Hampton Lord Hampton Crossbench

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to facilitate training of pilots from commercial to military pilots.

Photo of Lord Coaker Lord Coaker The Minister of State, Ministry of Defence

Commercial pilot training does not directly align with the training provided by the Royal Air Force (RAF) for military pilots. While there are some commonalities, there are also significant differences between operating civilian and military aircraft. Consequently, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), under CAP2254, accredits only certain aspects of military aircrew training.

The RAF Reserves offer four schemes that provide opportunities for commercial pilots including training for Air Experience Flight (AEF) duties, progression to Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) roles for University Air Squadrons (UAS) and AEF flight commanders, as well as roles with Defence partners such as Ascent Flying Training and Babcock.

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