Airline Pilot Salary: The Ultimate Breakdown & Industry Comparison 2025
Students at Florida Flyers Flight Academy dedicate themselves fully to achieving their dream of becoming airline pilots. Along the way, they build valuable relationships that support their careers well beyond flight school. But the big question remains: what airline pilot salary can I expect to earn?
How much do pilots make?
The short answer: the median airline pilot salary for 2024 was $226,600.
However, like many professions, pilot salaries aren’t uniform across the board. Airline pilot salary can vary each year depending on the airline, aircraft type, and even specific flight routes. Factors such as pilot credentials, years of experience, job title, and union agreements all play significant roles in determining a pilot’s exact compensation.
Overview of Airline Pilot Salaries and Key Influencing Factors
Pilot pay varies significantly depending on factors like airline, rank, and years of experience. In 2025, the average airline pilot salary in the U.S. exceeds $200,000, making it a highly attractive career choice. While many pursue aviation out of passion for flying, the strong earning potential and increasing demand for commercial pilots globally add solid financial incentives.
If you’re thinking about becoming a pilot but worry about earnings, know that pilot salaries typically justify the investment in flight training. In 2025, annual incomes in the U.S. range from approximately $56,000 for new pilots to over $700,000 for senior captains. Understanding how salaries are calculated can help you set realistic career expectations.
How Airline Pilot Salaries Are Calculated: Hourly Pay and Seniority
Most pilots are compensated on an hourly basis rather than receiving a fixed annual salary. Flight hours flown directly impact earnings, and this system rewards those who gain experience and seniority. Platforms like Glassdoor report competitive airline pilot salaries across the industry, though exact pay varies widely by airline and position.
By 2027, industry forecasts anticipate a 20% to 40% increase in pilot salaries in the U.S., driven by pilot shortages and growing demand. Each year, over 16,000 new pilot positions open, offering ample opportunities for aspiring aviators.
Breakdown of Airline Pilot Salaries by Major Airlines in 2025
Salaries differ widely across airlines, reflecting factors like company size, route networks, and pilot seniority. Here’s a breakdown of average and top-end salaries at several leading carriers:
| Airline | Average First Officer Salary | Average Captain Salary | Top Captain Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Airlines | $254,000 | $320,000+ | $549,000 |
| Delta Air Lines | $201,178 | $300,000+ | $526,000 |
| United Airlines | $151,154 | $290,000+ | $450,000+ |
| American Airlines | $145,995 | $280,000+ | $700,000+ |
| Qatar Airways | $173,000 – $187,000 | $300,000+ | N/A |
| China Southern Airlines | Starting at $228,000 | $310,000+ | N/A |
| Lufthansa | $141,000 (base) | $280,000+ | $500,000+ |
Additional Airlines and International Salary Insights
Beyond these major carriers, other airlines offer competitive pay and unique benefits:
- Emirates Airlines: Offers some of the highest international pilot salaries, often exceeding $250,000 annually, plus tax-free income and generous allowances.
- Qantas Airways: Australian carrier pilots earn between AUD $150,000 to $350,000 depending on rank and seniority.
- British Airways: UK-based pilots earn approximately £80,000 to £180,000, with additional bonuses.
Salaries reflect regional economic factors, tax structures, and cost of living, but the global demand for qualified pilots continues to push compensation upward.
Current Airline Pilot Salary Statistics and Projections
In 2025, U.S. News ranked airline pilots among the Top 10 highest-paying jobs in the United States, securing the #8 spot, just behind many medical professions. This highlights the fact that while the cost of flight training can be substantial, it is often outweighed by the attractive airline pilot salary pilots can earn throughout their careers.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers in 2024 was $226,600. This median means that half of all pilots earn more than this amount, while the other half earn less. The salary range is quite broad, as many senior pilots at major airlines earn upwards of $700,000 annually, especially those in captain positions with extensive experience and seniority.
Industry projections suggest that pilot salaries will continue to grow steadily over the next several years due to increasing demand and pilot shortages. In fact, by 2027, pilot salaries are expected to increase by 20% to 40% in many regions. This rising trend reflects the growing importance of skilled pilots and the competitive nature of the aviation industry.
Moreover, pilot compensation is not just limited to base salary. Many airlines offer additional financial benefits such as overtime pay, per diem allowances, profit-sharing, and comprehensive health and retirement plans. These supplementary benefits contribute significantly to the overall earnings of airline pilots, making the career financially rewarding despite the upfront investment in training.
Factors Contributing to Airline Pilot Salary Variations
Many factors influence the airline pilot salary, making it essential to understand multiple criteria and real-world examples to get an accurate picture of potential earnings. Simply asking, “How much do pilots make?” invites a complex answer that depends on a variety of elements, including the airline type, experience level, and aircraft flown.
How Is a Pilot’s Salary Calculated?
One key point is that airline pilots are paid hourly for actual flight hours, not per flight. Federal regulations limit pilots to a maximum of 1,000 flight hours per year to ensure they remain well-rested and operate safely. This cap means that, unlike many other professions, pilots log fewer working hours annually.
Pilot Hours vs. Average Worker Hours
For comparison, the average full-time worker clocks about 2,000 hours per year—double that of a commercial pilot—assuming a 40-hour workweek and two weeks’ vacation. Despite fewer hours, pilots earn a premium hourly rate that increases with seniority and experience.
Hourly Rates Vary by Airline and Aircraft
The hourly wage for pilots varies based on their experience, airline, and the aircraft type they operate. For instance, an experienced Delta Airlines Captain flying an Airbus A350 may earn around $354 per hour. At Delta, junior First Officers start at about $120 per hour.
In contrast, United Airlines pilots have a slightly different scale: a senior Captain flying a Boeing 777 might earn around $352 per hour, while a junior First Officer earns about $91 per hour. Aircraft type, such as a Boeing 747 versus a Bombardier CRJ200, and years of flying experience, heavily influence these rates.
Comparing Pay Across Airlines
Which airline you fly for makes a significant difference in your airline pilot salary. Cargo carriers like FedEx Express and UPS also offer wide pay ranges. FedEx pays junior First Officers approximately $84 per hour, with senior Captains earning around $326. UPS offers starting First Officer pay near $60 per hour, with senior Captains also earning up to $326 per hour.
These examples illustrate the broad pay scales pilots can expect, even when flying the same type of aircraft or working the same number of hours—1,000 annually, by regulation.
Why Pay Range Matters
Understanding the pay range is crucial, especially if you plan to stay with one airline long-term. Salary increases happen incrementally as you gain seniority, reflecting experience and years of service. This gradual progression applies equally to passenger airlines and cargo carriers.
Major Airlines Captain Salaries in 2025
Major Airlines First Officer Salaries in 2025
Comparing International Airline Pilot Salary with U.S. Counterparts
The global demand for qualified airline pilots has created a competitive salary environment worldwide. While U.S. airlines offer attractive compensation, many international carriers provide competitive or even higher pay packages to attract experienced pilots. Understanding these differences can help aspiring pilots evaluate career opportunities both domestically and abroad.
The following table compares estimated pilot salaries at major international airlines alongside leading U.S. carriers, including details about additional benefits like housing allowances where applicable.
| Airline | Country | Year 1 Salary (USD) | Year 6 Salary (USD) | Year 12 Salary (USD) | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emirates | UAE | $180,000 | $250,000 | $320,000 | $50,000 housing allowance |
| Cathay Pacific | Hong Kong | $70,000 | $95,000 | $106,000 | Standard benefits |
| Lufthansa | Germany | $90,000 | $120,000 | $150,000 | Standard benefits |
| Qantas | Australia | $110,000 | $140,000 | $180,000 | Standard benefits |
| Air Canada | Canada | $50,000 | $157,000 | $190,000 | Standard benefits |
| Delta Air Lines | USA | $120,000 | $290,000 | $318,000 | Profit sharing, 401(k), etc. |
| United Airlines | USA | $91,000 | $219,000 | $240,000 | Profit sharing, 401(k), etc. |
| American Airlines | USA | $116,000 | $231,000 | $321,000 | Profit sharing, 401(k), etc. |
Note: Salaries are approximate and can vary based on aircraft type, seniority, and local market conditions.
This comparison highlights how some international airlines, especially in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific, offer lucrative packages that include generous housing allowances. Meanwhile, U.S. airlines provide strong base pay complemented by profit-sharing and retirement benefits.
Details That Impact Airline Pilot Salary
Most airlines operate on a model that includes a minimum daily guarantee. It’s important to remember that pilots do not typically fly 40 hours per week; federal regulations limit pilots to a maximum of 1,000 flight hours per calendar year. To ensure steady income, most airlines guarantee a minimum number of monthly flying hours, usually around 75 to 80.
Many airlines also offer a guaranteed minimum pay based on daily hours, commonly around 4.1 hours per day. This minimum ensures pilots receive a paycheck even when flights are delayed or canceled, providing income stability despite the unpredictability of flying schedules.
Do Pilots Receive Signing or Retention Bonuses?
Yes. Signing and retention bonuses have become increasingly common, especially among regional airlines, due to the ongoing pilot shortage. For example, Piedmont Airlines offered a $180,000 retention bonus in 2021. In 2023, signing bonuses reached record levels, with Envoy Air, Piedmont Airlines, and PSA Airlines each offering bonuses of $100,000 or more.
These bonuses represent an excellent opportunity for new pilots entering the industry and are part of why many consider the airline pilot salary package attractive. Beyond signing bonuses, some airlines also provide annual bonuses tied to company performance or individual achievements. For instance, in 2019, employees at Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air shared $120 million in bonuses following an outstanding year in 2018—a trend that continues in the industry.
Can Pilots Earn Overtime Beyond Their Base Salary?
Absolutely. Pilots can significantly increase their earnings—often by 100% to 300%—by working on their days off or taking additional assignments. Airlines pay these higher rates to ensure flights operate as scheduled, especially during pilot shortages or high-demand periods. Many pilots earning between $500,000 and $700,000 annually do so by regularly taking on overtime.
Do Pilots Belong to Labor Unions?
Yes, most pilots join labor unions to protect their interests, including wages, working conditions, and benefits. The Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) is the largest pilot union globally, representing over 78,000 pilots from the U.S., Canada, and beyond. ALPA is affiliated with both the AFL-CIO in the U.S. and the Canadian Labour Congress.
In the U.S., approximately 98% of pilots are union members, while in Canada, about 94% belong to unions. Specific airlines, such as American Airlines, have their own pilot unions, like the Airline Pilots Association (ALPA), which advocate directly for their members.
Top 15 States for Airline Pilot Salary in 2024
The airline pilot salary varies significantly across the United States, influenced by factors such as regional demand, cost of living, and airline hubs. Pilots based in certain states enjoy notably higher average earnings due to a combination of these elements. Understanding which states offer the most lucrative pay can help aspiring and current pilots make informed career decisions.
Below is a detailed list of the top 15 states where airline pilots earned the highest mean salaries in 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. These figures reflect the average annual pay, highlighting the best states for maximizing your income in this rewarding profession.
| Rank | State | Mean (Average) Salary in 2024 (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kentucky | $413,070 |
| 2 | Washington | $382,350 |
| 3 | Georgia | $357,390 |
| 4 | California | $321,460 |
| 5 | Michigan | $307,070 |
| 6 | Illinois | $296,570 |
| 7 | New York | $290,170 |
| 8 | Virginia | $279,820 |
| 9 | Ohio | $277,580 |
| 10 | Florida | $265,890 |
| 11 | Oregon | $264,300 |
| 12 | Texas | $261,260 |
| 13 | Connecticut | $250,950 |
| 14 | Maine | $232,070 |
| 15 | Alaska | $222,280 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, June 2025
Conclusion: Navigating Your Career with Airline Pilot Salary Insights
Understanding the geographic variation in airline pilot salary is essential for making strategic career decisions. The top-paying states like Kentucky, Washington, and Georgia showcase how location influences compensation, often tied to airline hubs, regional demand, and living costs. These states offer pilots lucrative opportunities but also come with unique lifestyle and cost considerations.
Beyond location, pilots should consider the full scope of compensation. Base salaries are often supplemented with bonuses, overtime pay, per diems, and benefits such as retirement plans and health insurance. Seniority and experience also play critical roles, with pilots seeing substantial salary increases as they advance in their careers.
For new pilots or those planning relocations, researching specific airlines, their routes, and regional pay scales can unlock better financial outcomes. Remember, a pilot’s income is dynamic and can grow significantly over time with skill, experience, and union negotiations. Balancing salary expectations with personal lifestyle and professional goals will lead to a fulfilling and financially rewarding career in aviation.
FAQ: Airline Pilot Salary
| Question | Detailed Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the average airline pilot salary in the U.S.? | The average airline pilot salary in the U.S. was approximately $226,600 in 2024. However, this figure varies significantly based on factors like airline, location, seniority, and aircraft type. Entry-level salaries start lower, while experienced captains can earn upwards of $700,000. |
| Which states offer the highest airline pilot salaries? | States like Kentucky, Washington, and Georgia top the list, offering mean salaries exceeding $350,000 annually. These states often have major airline hubs or regional demand driving higher pay. However, cost of living and tax implications should also be considered. |
| How does cost of living affect airline pilot salaries? | Higher pilot salaries in some states often compensate for elevated living expenses such as housing, taxes, and daily costs. Pilots considering relocation should balance salary offers against these factors to maintain their quality of life. |
| Are bonuses part of the airline pilot salary? | Yes. Many pilots receive signing bonuses, retention bonuses, annual performance bonuses, and overtime pay. Especially in regions experiencing pilot shortages, signing bonuses have become substantial and can add tens of thousands to a pilot’s income. |
| Can airline pilot salaries increase over time? | Absolutely. Pilots typically start at lower pay rates, which increase as they gain flight hours, seniority, and upgrade to captain roles. Union contracts and collective bargaining agreements also play a major role in salary growth and job security. |
| Do all pilots belong to unions? | Most U.S. airline pilots belong to unions such as the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), which negotiates wages, benefits, and working conditions. Union membership helps secure competitive salaries and protections across the industry. |
| How does airline choice impact pilot salary? | Salaries vary widely between legacy carriers, low-cost airlines, and regional operators. Legacy airlines typically offer higher salaries and better benefits but may have more competitive hiring. Regional airlines may offer signing bonuses to attract new pilots. |
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