Airline Pilot Salary 2023: How Much do Pilots Make?

What is the Average Salary for Airline Pilots?

Airline pilots are among the most highly paid professionals in the world. According to the the most recent US Government Occupational Outlook Handbook (May 2022), the salary for commercial pilots is $103,910 per year. The median annual wage for airline pilots, copilots and flight engineers is $$211,790. However these Bureau of Labor Statistics are already out of date. Since their release most major US airline have provided substantial pay increases. Additionally, pilots participate in employers' health, life and disability insurance, and retirement & pension plans. These plans often more generous that what employees in other fields receive.  Obviously, these figures are averages of the the wide variation in pilot salaries across different airlines, aircraft types, and experience levels.

How Much do Airline Pilots Earn at Major US Airlines?

Changes to Airline Pilot Pay in 2023

2023 pilot salary information, there has never been a better time to fly for a major airline. The US airline industry saw a remarkable upswing in pilot average base salary. The trend was primarily driven by the pilot shortage and the large number of openings for airline and commercial pilots. Amidst the resurgent post-pandemic travel boom, major carriers have unveiled significant increases in pilot salaries to entice pilots due to the pilot shortage. Delta Air Lines pilots ratified a contract featuring a 34% raise over four years. This includes an immediate 18% raise upon signing, a 5% hike the subsequent year, and 4% raises in both 2025 and 2026. United Airlines wasn't far behind; their preliminary labor agreement chalked up pay increases reaching a whopping 40.2% over a span of four years, accommodating enhanced benefits like overtime and holiday pay, as well as better scheduling provisions. 

Alaska Airlines joined the cadre with a pay raise agreement of up to 40% over four years, showcasing the burgeoning leverage of labor groups, particularly pilots, in this thriving phase of the airline sector. Their deal, pending ratification, would align Alaska's pilots' pay with their peers at Delta. Frontier Airlines broke the mold with a staggering 53% raise over five years, integrating considerable boosts in retirement benefits and job security provisions. Meanwhile, JetBlue Airways announced a 30% salary augmentation over six years, supplemented with enhancements in work protocols and career growth trajectories. Notably, regional carriers, specifically American Airlines-owned Piedmont and Envoy, have unveiled a massive 50% pay hike that will extend until August 2024. This bold move sets these regional airline pilots on a pedestal as the nation's highest earners, instigating other carriers to potentially reconsider and recalibrate their compensation structures.

As legacy airlines hire away regional regional airline pilots, regional airline are seeing salary increase in their first year. Commercial airline pilot salaries are rising across the board too because the need for new pilots is increasing. Pilot salaries vary, but working for a major airline just keeps getting better.

How Much do First Officers Earn at Major US Airlines?

Become an Airline Pilot

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How much Airline Pilots make per year: Average Airline Pilot vs Experienced Pilot

Salaries of airline pilots vary based on factors such as the airline they work for, their experience level, and the type of aircraft they fly. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers was $211,790 in May 2022, but that's not the  median salary for airline captains. Thought salaries range widely based on experience, routes and the aircraft flow, an airline captains is median salary is around $310,000. 

Generally, the larger the aircraft, the better the pilot compensation. There is a big jump in pilot pay when a pilot becomes a captain for a major airline flying wide-body aircraft like an A350. This generally requires at least 7 years with the airline, but even first year captains of wide body planes are making around $350,000 per year.

Pilots with around 20 years of experience can earn the highest salaries. For instance, some senior, long-haul captains at American Airlines are forecasted to make a base salary of around $600,000 a year. Established airline pilots are paid very well, with the annual earnings of senior captains around $400,000.  The most experienced pilots and best paid pilots are earning to over $700,000 per year in the U.S.

How Much do Pilots Make During an Airline Pilot Career

According to Kit Darby, one of the foremost authorities on pilot earnings. The potential lifetime earnings of a pilot can be substantial, for the highest earners, a captain at UPS of 40 years, he estimates a little over 24 million dollars in total career earnings. Obviously this applies only to pilots that start their careers young and and make the best make strategic career moves. These are forecasts, but not promises of future earnings.

In the early stages of a pilot’s career, they typically start as a First Officer at a regional airline. This is a crucial period where they gain valuable flight hours and experience. The salary at this stage will not be as high as more senior roles. As pilots gain more experience and log more flight hours, they normally move on to larger airlines, eventually becoming a Captain. The position of a Captain at a major airline is one of the highest-paid roles in the aviation industry. The salary at this stage can significantly boost a pilot’s lifetime earnings.

Breaking Down the Airline Pilot Salaries: From Regional to Major Airlines

One of the main factors that affect the airline pilot salary is the type of airline they work for. Generally, there are two types of airlines: regional and major. Regional airlines typically pay less than major airlines, as they have lower operating costs and less competitive hiring requirements. For example, the average annual pay for a Regional Airline Pilot in the United States is $86,579. On the other hand, a Major Airline Pilot makes an average of $222,000 a year.

How Much do Airline Pilots Make at Regional Airlines?

What Benefits and Perks Do Airline Pilots Receive?

• Health Insurance: Airlines provide comprehensive health insurance benefits for their pilots, these typically include health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement Plan: Airlines have generous retirement plans for their pilots. Specific plans vary but includes 401(k) plans with a company match and traditional pension plans.
• Paid Vacation: Pilots receive paid vacation time, which increases based on years of service.
• Travel Benefits: While working as a pilot, you’ll get to travel quite a bit, but most airlines allow you to travel for free even when you are not working. Additionally, most airlines also offer travel passes for spouse and immediate family.

How Does Flight Experience Impact an Airline Pilot’s Pay?

Flight experience is one of the most important factors that impact an airline pilot’s pay. Flight experience refers to the number of hours that a pilot has flown in a specific aircraft type or category. It affect the pilot’s salary in several ways:

• Experience can determine the eligibility and qualification of a pilot for a certain job or position.

• Experience can influence the seniority and rank of a pilot within an airline.

• Experience can affect the pay rate and bonus of a pilot.

Is the Demand for Airline and Commercial Pilots Growing?

The demand for airline and commercial pilots is expected to grow in the future, as the air travel industry recovers from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and resumes its expansion. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of airline and commercial pilots is projected to grow 3 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.

Tips and Strategies for Maximizing Your Airline Pilot Earnings

Some possible tips for maximizing your airline pilot earnings are:

• Gain more experience and certifications, which can make pilots more qualified and competitive for higher-paying roles.

• Seek opportunities in different sectors of aviation, such as corporate, charter, or cargo, which may offer higher pay or more flexibility than airlines.

• Apply for airlines that offer higher pay, better benefits, or more incentives, such as signing bonuses or profit-sharing.

• Work more hours or pick up extra trips, if possible and safe, which can increase their hourly pay or the monthly guarantee.

• Keep track of the expenses and deductions related to the pilot job, such as travel costs, union dues, or uniform maintenance, which can be used for tax purposes or reimbursement claims.

Commercial Pilot Salary: How much do commercial pilots make?

Commercial pilots fly aircraft for charter flights, rescue operations, firefighting, aerial photography, and crop dusting. Unlike airline pilots, commercial pilots are not limited to flying large, multi-engine airplanes. Many commercial pilots fly smaller planes on short, local flights—sometimes in tough weather conditions. In 2020, the median annual wage for commercial pilots was $93,300.

How Much Do Commercial Pilots Make? 

The salaries of commercial pilots can vary greatly depending on the type of work they do, the size and type of their aircraft, and their level of experience. For example, a commercial pilot who works for a private charter company may earn a different salary than a commercial pilot who works for a government agency or a non-profit organization.

Become a Commercial Airline Pilot: Pilot Salary at Each Stage of Airline Pilot Career

Becoming a commercial airline pilot involves several steps and stages, each with its own requirements, challenges, and rewards. Here are the main steps and the expected salaries at each stage:

1. Student Pilot: This is the first stage of flight training, where the student learns the basics of flying and earns their Student Pilot Certificate. The student pilot does not earn a salary at this stage, but they have to pay for their flight training and other expenses.

2. Private Pilot: This is the second stage of flight training, where the student earns their Private Pilot License (PPL). The private pilot can fly for pleasure or personal business, but they cannot be paid for their flying services.

3. Commercial Pilot: This is the third stage of flight training, where the student earns their Commercial Pilot License (CPL). The commercial pilot can be paid for their flying services, and they can work for a variety of employers and roles. The salary of a commercial pilot can range from $20,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on the job and the location.

4. Airline Pilot: This is the final stage of flight training, where the student earns their Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). The airline pilot can work for a regional or major airline, and they can fly large, multi-engine airplanes. The salary of an airline pilot can range from $36,000 to $700,000+ per year, depending on the airline, the aircraft, and the seniority.

How Long is the Commercial Pilot Career Span?

The career span of a commercial pilot can be quite long, as pilots can start their flight training as early as 16 years old and continue flying until they reach the mandatory retirement age of 65. However, the career span can also be affected by other factors, such as the health and fitness of the pilot, the demand and supply of pilot jobs, and the changes and trends in the aviation industry. 

How long does it take to become a pilot?

Salary for Airline Pilots Their Aviation Career

The salary for airline pilots can vary greatly at each stage of their aviation career. Here are the average salaries for airline pilots at different stages:

• First Officer (FO): This is the entry-level position for airline pilots, also known as the co-pilot or the second-in-command. The FO assists the captain in flying the airplane and performing other duties. The salary for a FO at a regional airline can range from $36,000 to $56,000 per year, while the salary for a FO at a major airline can range from $56,000 to $120,000 per year.

• Captain: This is the senior position for airline pilots, also known as the pilot-in-command. The captain has the ultimate responsibility for the safety and operation of the airplane. The salary for a captain at a regional airline can range from $56,000 to $120,000 per year, while the salary for a captain at a major airline can range from $120,000 to $700,000+ per year.

• Instructor: This is a position for experienced pilots who teach and mentor other pilots. The instructor can work for a flight school, an airline, or a university. A flight instructor salary can range from $20,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on the job and the location. 

What are Flight Instructor Salaries?

A certified flight instructor can expect to earn between $22 and $66 per hour depending on region. Flight instructors teach aspiring pilots how to fly and prepare them for various exams and certifications². Flight instructors may have a rewarding and flexible career, but they may also face some challenges, such as weather conditions, student performance, and liability issues².

Will Pilot Salaries Increase?

The salaries of pilots are expected to increase in the future, as the demand for air travel grows and the supply of qualified pilots becomes tighter. The salaries of pilots are also influenced by other factors, such as the economy, the labor market, and the bargaining power of pilot unions. However, the increase in pilot salaries may also be offset by other trends, such as the automation of flight tasks, the consolidation of airlines, and the outsourcing of pilot jobs.

How will the Pilot Shortage affect Airline Pay?

As airlines continue to experience the most significant pilot shortage, they must compete with one another for pilots through higher compensation. The mandatory retirement of pilots are projected each year, and they will continue to rise over the next decade. This has led to a significant increase in pilot wages for all types of pilots. However, these wage increases may not be enough to address the shortfall. Most pilots start with a regional airline as they accumulate hours of flight in their career as a pilot, but many pilots are moving to the majors faster than before. The FAA limits the hours per year pilots can fly. Mandatory retirement, pilot training and flight time requirements mean pilots can expect the shortage to last for a minimum of a decade and the demand for pilots is likely to exceed supply for the foreseeable future.

Current Trends and News Articles Concerning Airline Pilot Salaries in 2023

Some of the current trends and news articles concerning airline pilot salaries in 2023 are:

• The recovery of the airline industry from the COVID-19 crisis, which has led to an increase in the demand and hiring of pilots.

• The competition among airlines to attract and retain pilots, which has resulted in higher salaries, bonuses, and benefits for pilots.

• The emergence of new technologies and innovations that enhance the performance and safety of aviation, such as electric aircraft, autonomous flight, and artificial intelligence.

• The diversification of the pilot workforce, which has seen more women, minorities, and veterans becoming pilots.

• The challenges and opportunities that pilots face in the changing and dynamic environment of aviation, such as climate change, cybersecurity, and globalization.

However, it’s important to note that the salaries of pilots can vary greatly depending on many factors, and the figures mentioned here are only averages or estimates. So, aspiring pilots should do their own research and consult with professionals or mentors to get a more accurate and personalized understanding of their potential earnings.

Pilot Pay FAQ

Pilot Pay: Starting and Early Career

Airline pilots’ salaries vary greatly, but for a relatively small investment in flight training, the financial rewards of a pilot’s paycheck are more than sufficient. The pay can range from $36 per hour to $130 per hour. This increases with major airlines where flying a Boeing 777 pays in the neighborhood of $320.

Do You Need a Degree to Become a Pilot?

A college degree is not required by many commercial airlines. However, having a degree can enhance hiring opportunities with some.

How Do Experienced Pilots’ Salaries Compare to New Entrants?

Experienced pilots earn significantly more than new entrants. For instance, airline pilot's salary at major airlines in 2022 ranged from $56,000 to $700,000+.

Does Having a College Degree Affect Pilot Salary?

A college degree is not strictly required to become a pilot, but it can offer several advantages. For example, airlines and other employers often prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree. The specific degree field may not be as crucial for a commercial pilot compared to a major airline pilot. However, major airlines typically have more competitive hiring requirements and many prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in aviation, aeronautical science, aerospace engineering, or air traffic management.

Does Networking Help Pilots Earn More?

The connections that pilots make throughout their career may lead to higher-paying roles⁷. For instance, networking can help pilots find opportunities in different sectors of aviation, such as corporate, charter, or cargo. Networking can also help pilots learn from other professionals and gain insights into the industry trends and best practices.

Pilot Pay: Comparative Salaries

What’s the Average Salary for Airline Pilots in Major Airlines vs. Regional?

The average salary for airline pilots in major airlines is significantly higher than that of regional airlines. For instance, Southwest Airlines pilots earn an average annual salary of $222,000. On the other hand, the average annual pay for a Regional Airline Pilot in the United States is $86,579.

How Much Do International Airline Pilots Make?

International airline pilots also earn well. For instance, Qatar pilots average $173,000-$187,000 annually. However, international airline pilots may also face some challenges, such as different regulations, cultural differences, and visa requirements.

How Much Do Cargo Pilots Make?

Cargo pilots, such as those working for FedEx, can earn an average salary of $270,160. Cargo pilots typically fly larger aircraft and transport goods rather than passengers. Cargo pilots may also have more flexible schedules and less interaction with customers.

How Much Do Charter Pilots Make?

A Charter Pilot makes an average of $102,243 a year. Charter pilots fly private aircraft for individuals or groups who hire them for specific trips. Charter pilots may enjoy more variety and autonomy in their work, but they may also have less stability and benefits than airline pilots.

How Much Do Corporate Pilots Make?

A Corporate Pilot’s salary is estimated to be around $124,868 per year. Corporate pilots fly business jets for companies or executives who own or lease them. Corporate pilots may have access to more luxurious aircraft and destinations, but they may also have to deal with demanding clients and unpredictable schedules.

How Much Do Flight Instructors Make?

A certified flight instructor can expect to earn between $25 and $50 per hour depending on region. Flight instructors teach aspiring pilots how to fly and prepare them for various exams and certifications. Flight instructors may have a rewarding and flexible career, but they may also face some challenges, such as weather conditions, student performance, and liability issues.

Pilot Pay: Pay Structure Details

Do Pilots Have a Guaranteed Minimum Pay?

Most airlines operate on a concept called Minimum Monthly Guarantee. This ensures pilots will be compensated regardless, and they will receive a salary each month. In most cases, the number of guaranteed hours varies but is approximately 72-76 hours each month. This is just a minimum pilots earn more if they fly more than the guaranteed hours or receive other incentives.

Is There a Guaranteed Minimum Pay for Airline Pilots?

Yes, airline pilots have a guaranteed minimum pay based on the Minimum Monthly Guarantee concept. However, the exact amount of the minimum pay may vary depending on the airline, the pilot’s seniority, and the type of aircraft.

How Much Do Airline Pilots Make per hour?

Pilots are paid by the hour and not an annual salary. The pay can range from $36 per hour to $130 per hour. This increases with major airlines where flying a Boeing 777 pays in the neighborhood of $320.

How Much Do Airline Pilots Make per flight?

Pilots are paid by the hour, not per flight but make. but hourly pay rates mean that the per flight compensation ranges from over $3000 per flight for senior captains on long flights with large aircraft to as little as $20 for the lowest paid pilots on the shortest flights. 

Pilot Pay: Additional Earnings and Bonuses

Do Airlines Offer Signing Bonuses?

Yes, some airlines offer signing bonuses to attract and retain pilots. For example, regional airlines are offering huge signing bonuses to pilots due to a shortage of pilots qualified to fly for the airlines. Signing bonuses can range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more.

Are There Signing Bonuses in the Airline Industry?

Yes, signing bonuses are common in the airline industry, especially among regional airlines. Signing bonuses are a way for airlines to compete for pilots in a tight labor market. Signing bonuses may also be offered to pilots who agree to work for a certain period of time or in a certain location.

Can Pilots Earn More by Working on Their Days Off?

Yes, pilots can earn more by working on their days off, depending on the airline and the pilot’s contract. Some airlines allow pilots to pick up extra trips or hours on their days off, which can increase their pay. However, pilots also have to consider the annual FAA limits on total hours flown. Additionally, pilots are free to pursue non-flying work, to run businesses, manage real estate and generate additional income on their days off.

Pilot Pay: Benefits and Salary Enhancement

What Benefits Do Pilots Receive?

In addition to annual earnings, pilots receive paid vacation time, participate in employer health, life and disability insurance and retirement plans. Pilots often receive other benefits, such as free or discounted travel for themselves and family members, hotel accommodations and meal allowances.

Does Transitioning from a Military Pilot to a Commercial Pilot Affect Salary?

Yes, transitioning from a military pilot to a commercial pilot can affect salary. Military pilots may have an advantage in getting hired by airlines, as they have valuable experience, skills, and credentials. Military pilots may also be eligible for certain incentives, such as the GI Bill, which can help them pay for their flight training, but your hours as a pilot in the military won't count for airline seniority.

How Can Pilots Negotiate Better Salaries?

Pilots can negotiate better salaries by following some tips and strategies, such as:

• Doing research and gathering information about the average salary, benefits, and incentives of the airline and the position they are applying for.

• Highlighting their skills, qualifications, and achievements that make them stand out from other candidates.

• Asking for a salary range rather than a specific number, and being prepared to justify their expectations.

• Being flexible and willing to compromise on other aspects of the job, such as the schedule, the location, or the aircraft type.

• Being respectful and professional throughout the negotiation process, and expressing their enthusiasm and interest in working for the airline.

What Are Some Tips for Increasing My Pilot Salary?

Some possible tips for increasing pilot salary are:

• Gain more experience and certifications, which can make pilots more qualified and competitive for higher-paying roles.

• Seek opportunities in different sectors of aviation, such as corporate, charter, or cargo, which may offer higher pay or more flexibility than airlines.

• Apply for airlines that offer higher pay, better benefits, or more incentives, such as signing bonuses or profit-sharing.

• Work more hours or pick up extra trips, if possible and safe, which can increase the hourly pay or the monthly guarantee.

• Keep track of the expenses and deductions related to the pilot job, such as travel costs, union dues, or uniform maintenance, which can be used for tax purposes or reimbursement claims.

Aspiring Pilot? Become a commercial pilot.

Do these salaries look appealing? Would you like to learn more about training to become an airline pilot? We can help!

Accelerated flight training programs, like the Flex Air Pilot Pathway program, offer a comprehensive approach, enabling students to secure all necessary licenses within 10-12 months. If you are interested in becoming a professional pilot or just flying for fun, reach out and we'd love to get to in the air!