Working as an airline pilot comes with incredible perks. From being in the sky to exploring new countries and, of course, earning a decent salary—the benefits are endless!
Seeing the world from thousands of feet above is a dream for many, but only a fraction of individuals are able to turn it into reality. However, the appeal of becoming an airline pilot goes beyond navigating the skies or exploring new places. The attractive salary often inspires individuals to choose this as their profession.
As a prominent aviation academy in the USA, we have helped thousands of dreamers land their dream jobs, increase their earnings, and enjoy fulfilling careers. If you’re wondering, “How much does an airline pilot make?” this blog is for you! Dive in now to find out.
Key Takeaways
- The salary of an airline pilot varies depending on the aircraft they fly.
- The salary also differs on the grounds of location and experience.
- Beyond salary, airline pilots are also deemed to receive benefits such as life insurance, health insurance, and a striking retirement plan.
How Much Does An Airline Pilot Make?
The median salary of an airline pilot is $239,000. However, salaries can vary widely depending on factors like experience, location, and the airline. Additionally, pilot salaries are influenced by the type of aircraft they fly.
Regional Airlines
- Entry-level officers make around $40,000-$60,000 per year.
- Experienced captains make around $80,000-$120,000 per year.
Major Airlines
- First officers get a salary around $60,000-$120,000 per year.
- Captains make around $150,000-$300,000 per year, based on what aircraft they fly and their level of experience.
- Experienced captains at prominent airlines make around $30,000-$40,000 per month.
Cargo Airlines
- Entry-level officers make around $50,000-$80,000 per year
- Experienced captains make around $200,000 per year
Factors Determining the Salary of Airline Pilots
Often students at our aviation academy in the USA are curious to know the salary of a pilot. While there is no straightforward answer, there are certain factors that influence the pilot’s salary in USA. Check out the factors below:
- Type of Airline
- Major Airlines: Prominent and reputed airlines, such as, Delta, American Airlines, and Emirates give pilots a high salary. One of the prominent reasons why their salaries are high is due to their international operations and larger aircraft.
- Regional Airlines: These offer lower pay compared to major airlines but serve as a stepping stone for pilots who have just passed out from a flight training school and are seeking experience and elongated flight hours.
- Experience Level
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- First Officer (Co-Pilots): Pilots who have just started their career in aviation becomes a first officer, which means they will have low salaries initially.
- Captains: With more flying hours, pilots can advance to captain roles, which come with higher pay and greater responsibility.
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- Flight Hours
Pilots’ pay often depends on the number of flight hours they log. Airlines usually calculate salaries based on hourly rates, with guaranteed minimum hours per month.
- Location
Middle Eastern airlines often provide competitive salaries and generous benefits to pilots than others.
- Union Membership
Being part of a pilots’ union can impact earnings, as unions negotiate pay rates, benefits, and working conditions on behalf of their members.
Tips To Get a Salary Hike as an Airline Pilot
Choose the right flight training school: The selection of the flight training school determines a lot about your career in aviation. Although there are many flight schools in the USA, selecting the right one will help clear your basics and lay a strong foundation to broaden your aviation knowledge.
Focus on increasing your flight hours: By logging more flight hours, you can quickly transition from being a co-pilot to higher designations, which will eventually result in a salary increase.
Explore high-demand regions: Airline companies in the Middle East and Asia often face a shortage of skilled and talented pilots. Consider job opportunities in these regions, where you can expect competitive benefits and salary hikes.
Build specialized skills: Never stop learning! Enroll in aviation courses at reputed aviation academy in the U.S., such as Aerocadet, to ensure your knowledge grows alongside your salary.
Become an asset: Whatever airline company you work for, give your 100% so that they cannot afford to lose you.
Country-wise Airline Pilots Salary
United States
- Regional Airline Pilots: $25,000 – $80,000 per year for first officers; up to $120,000 for captains.
- Major Airline Pilots: $100,000 – $400,000 per year. Senior captains on large aircraft can earn even more.
Asia and the Middle East
- Airlines in the Middle East, such as Qatar Airways and Emirates, offer competitive salaries ranging from $150,000 to $300,000 annually for captains, often accompanied by tax-free income and housing allowances.
- In Asia, salaries vary widely, with captains in high-demand markets like China earning over $300,000 per year.
Bottom Line
Besides the handsome salary, airline pilots are bestowed with respect and reputation in society. So, if you want to relish the remarkable benefits of being a part of aviation industry, enrolling in the flight training school can be the first step.
Get in touch with the experts at Aerocadet, the best flight training school in the USA to know how you can begin your career in aviation. In addition to flight training, we offer pilot internships in the USA and Canada. Contact us to learn everything about the aviation courses we offer!
FAQs
What are the other perks offered to airline pilots?
Besides the decent salary, airline pilots enjoy the following perks:
- Travel Perks
- Bonuses
- Retirement Benefits
- Health Insurance
- Paid Time Off
What is the eligibility of becoming an airline pilot?
- Minimum age 18 years old (21 for an Airline Transport Pilot license).
- High school diploma or equivalent (a college degree is preferred by some airlines).
- Obtain a private pilot license (PPL) and a commercial pilot license (CPL).
- Have sufficient flight hours
- Pass medical examinations
- Ensure strong communication ability
Disclaimer– The information provided in this content is just for educational purposes and is written by a professional writer. Consult us to learn more about working in the aviation industry.