British Airways hires taxi pilots to slash delays at Chicago O'Hare

British Airways is hiring specialist taxi pilots for Chicago O’Hare as part of its long-haul expansion. The airline plans to grow its route network by 9% by winter 2026, adding flights to major US cities. The new role aims to cut delays and improve efficiency at one of the world’s busiest airports.

At Chicago O’Hare, planes often use their own engines to taxi between terminals. This practice wastes fuel, particularly for large aircraft like the Boeing 777 and 787. It also adds to flight crew workload, sometimes pushing duty times beyond legal limits.

The issue stems from the airport’s layout: arrivals land at Terminal 5, while departures leave from Terminal 3. Long taxi routes between them cause delays, especially for transatlantic flights. British Airways now wants dedicated taxi pilots to handle ground movements, freeing up main crews for flying duties. The new position comes with a base salary of $90,000 to $100,000 per year. Applicants must hold an Air Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and have experience operating Boeing 777 or 787 aircraft. The move supports British Airways’ broader growth, which includes 9% more long-haul flights by winter 2026. New and increased services will cover US cities like Baltimore, Houston, and New Orleans.

The taxi pilot role is designed to streamline operations at Chicago O’Hare. By reducing fuel waste and easing crew schedules, British Airways expects smoother connections for its expanding US routes. The airline’s growth plan also includes more flights to key destinations over the next two years.