easyJet has today issued an update regarding major UK airports such as London Luton, Manchester and Gatwick.

Today, Monday, the airline has launched applications for its 2026 engineering apprenticeship programme, urging the next generation to help shape the future of aviation.

This comes at a time when the UK Civil Aviation Authority predicts that 27% of the aircraft engineering workforce will retire within the next decade, and after a new easyJet study that found some 65% of the 2,000 Brits aged 16-24 surveyed said they had never considered a career in engineering, with many deterred by misconceptions about their suitability for the profession.

Over half (59%) believed they lacked the necessary qualifications, while 34% said engineering was never presented as an option at school and 21% thought it was too expensive to pursue.

The research also highlighted a persistent gender gap, with only 36% of young women considering a career in engineering, compared to 52% of men in the same age group.

In reality, engineering is a viable career path for many, and an apprenticeship offers a practical alternative route to gain the skills, experience and confidence needed for a successful career in the field.

The study also revealed a growing trend among 16-24 year-olds expressing an interest in pursuing a career with a purpose. Over half (52%) expressed a desire to be in a role that benefits society, with more than two-fifths (44%) stating they aspired to a career that would help tackle climate change.

A further 43% identified engineering as a profession that could achieve these goals through activities such as developing lower-emission technologies.

easyJet is now welcoming its next batch of aspiring engineers – offering an apprenticeship programme that will provide essential skills while earning and learning on the job, without the barriers of traditional routes to access the profession.

Speaking about the call for more apprentices to join its ranks, 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 of aircraft while helping to deliver on aviation’s commitment to decarbonisation.

“This programme not only provides a pathway to grow professionally but also allows apprentices to make a meaningful contribution to the success of our operations throughout our network. We’re looking forward to opening the doors to applicants from all backgrounds who are ready to take their first step into a rewarding career in aviation.”

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 – helping deliver our Plan for Change.”

Applications to easyJet’s engineering apprenticeship scheme are now open, with 20 places up for grabs to start in April 2026 and another 20 for October 2026.

Those with a minimum of 2 GCSEs at grade 3 and above or equivalent (SCQF Level 4) Scottish Qualifications in English and Maths are urged to apply here