A new batch of high-flying graduates have stepped onto the career ladder at British Airways (BA).

A total of 72 graduates were welcomed to the airline last week, ready to begin their journey, which started with a two-week induction programme to settle in the new recruits.

The airline has nine different graduate programmes from finance and human resources to management allowing university leavers to spread their wings with the British flag carrier.

One of this year's graduates from Hounslow is on a three-year engineering programme.

Speaking about his new career, Junaid Baig, of Hounslow, said: "I’m very excited to be joining British Airways and learning about all the airline has to offer. 

"I can’t wait to get started on my first engineering placement.”

Graduates are expected to play an important role in the airline's growth, particularly as it has invested £5 billion in new aircraft, new products and providing better customer service.

Sara Philp, strategic resourcing manager, said:  “This is not your average graduate programme – you can seize the opportunity to deliver multi-million pound projects, manage a busy airport terminal, work overseas and even travel the world as a member of cabin crew. 

"You will receive a huge amount of support and guidance throughout your graduate placements and beyond – all we require from you is ambition, eagerness to learn, resilience and boundless enthusiasm.”

Last month, BA was also in the limelight for its award-winning apprenticeship scheme which was highly commended in the BT Macro employer of the year category at the National Apprenticeship Awards 2014.

This year BA will welcome 175 apprentices to 12 schemes ranging from engineering and operations, to IT, finance and head office. 

Francesca Catling, 20, from Hillingdon, who has just completed her two-year head office apprenticeship, said:  “I think becoming an apprentice for British Airways was a very smart move. 

"I’ve been awarded a level 3 NVQ in business and administration while receiving excellent training – all the while earning a salary. 

"I now have a permanent job as a consumer PR executive with a bright future ahead.”

Visit ba.com/careers or apprenticeships.org.uk or call 08000 150 600.