Low-cost airline easyJet is calling on the next generation to join its engineering team as applications open for the airline’s 2026 apprenticeship programme – launched amid concerns over an ageing UK aircraft maintenance workforce.

With the UK Civil Aviation Authority estimating that more than a quarter (27%) of the aircraft engineering workforce will retire within the next decade, easyJet is expanding efforts to attract young people into technical aviation roles.

The airline’s new research, conducted among 2,000 people aged 16-24, revealed that 65% have never considered a career in engineering, with many held back by misconceptions about qualifications, cost and accessibility.

Over half (59%) said they did not feel they had the right qualifications, while a third (34%) stated that engineering was never presented as a career option at school.

The findings also highlighted a gender gap, with only 36% of young women having considered engineering compared with 52% of young men.

However, the research pointed to a strong appetite for purpose-driven careers: 52% of respondents said they wanted to work in a role that benefits society, and 44% aspired to help tackle climate change.

A further 43% saw engineering as a career that could achieve those ambitions through developing lower-emission technologies.

To address these barriers, easyJet’s apprenticeship scheme offers an accessible route into aircraft engineering – combining on-the-job training with classroom learning.

Apprentices earn while they learn, gaining practical experience on the airline’s modern fleet.

Brendan McConnellogue, director of engineering and maintenance at easyJet, said: “Today’s young people are motivated by purpose – they want to solve problems, travel, innovate and play their part in building a more sustainable future.

“Our engineering apprenticeships give candidates the chance to gain valuable experience working on our state-of-the-art fleet while helping to deliver on aviation’s commitment to decarbonisation.”

Aviation minister Keir Mather said: “This engineering apprenticeship scheme marks an important step in continuing to build a highly skilled aviation workforce fit for the future.

“Initiatives like easyJet’s unlock exciting, flexible routes into aviation, backing an expanding sector whilst offering young people valuable opportunities and long-term careers.”

Former easyJet apprentice Emma Bailey said the scheme provided “a sense of community” and “friends for life”, reflecting on the collaborative learning experience.

Applications for the 2026 intake are now open at easyJet’s Luton and Gatwick bases, with expansion to Manchester, Liverpool, Bristol, Edinburgh and Glasgow planned.

Candidates require a minimum of two GCSEs (grade 4 or above) in English and Maths, or equivalent Scottish qualifications.

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