How Much Do Pilots Make? The Ultimate Guide to Top Earnings in 2025
There should be a reward for hard work. Think about it, who spends years in training, pours tens of thousands into flight school, and spends endless hours learning how to operate aircraft just to scrape by?
Becoming a pilot isn’t easy, and it definitely isn’t cheap. So, after putting in all that effort, the big question is:
How much do pilots make?
Pilot salaries are all over the place. Some pilots barely make enough to cover their student loans, while others are raking in $400K+ a year flying long-haul international routes. Your earnings depend on a few key things:
- Who you fly for – Regional airlines pay a fraction of what major international carriers offer.
- What you fly – Bigger jets usually mean bigger paychecks.
- How much experience you have – A rookie first officer isn’t making what a senior captain does.
- Where you fly – Pilots in the U.S. earn differently than those in the Middle East or Asia.
Right now, pilot salaries are climbing as airlines try to fill seats in the cockpit. Some offer huge sign-on bonuses, higher wages, and better benefits just to attract new talent.
So, is a career in aviation worth it? Does pilot pay make up for the cost of training? And how do you get to the top-paying airlines?
That’s what this guide is all about. You’ll get real numbers, a breakdown of salaries at every career stage, and insights into which airlines pay the most. Whether you’re just starting out or aiming for a captain’s seat, this is your complete guide to pilot earnings in 2025.
Let’s get into it.
Pilot Salary: How Much Do Pilots Make Per Year?
So, how much do pilots make per year? It depends on what type of pilot you are, who you fly for, and how much experience you have.
A newly hired regional airline first officer might start at $50,000, while an experienced captain flying long-haul for a major airline can easily clear $400,000+ a year.
But that’s just the base salary. Many pilots earn extra through bonuses, per diem, and profit-sharing programs. Let’s break it down.
Annual Salary Breakdown by Pilot Type (2025 Estimates)
| Pilot Type | Entry-Level Salary | Experienced Salary | Top Earners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regional Airline Pilot | $50,000 – $80,000 | $90,000 – $150,000 | $180,000+ |
| Major Airline Pilot | $80,000 – $120,000 | $150,000 – $350,000 | $400,000+ |
| Cargo Pilot | $70,000 – $110,000 | $130,000 – $300,000 | $350,000+ |
| Private Jet Pilot | $60,000 – $120,000 | $130,000 – $250,000 | $300,000+ |
| Helicopter Pilot | $50,000 – $100,000 | $120,000 – $180,000 | $220,000+ |
- Experience: A pilot fresh out of flight school will earn significantly less than a seasoned captain with thousands of hours logged.
- Aircraft Type: Bigger jets, longer routes, and international flights tend to come with higher salaries.
- Employer: Major airlines (like Delta, Emirates, or Lufthansa) pay substantially more than regional carriers.
Airline salaries are on the rise as pilot shortages push airlines to offer higher wages, bonuses, and better contracts. In 2025:
- Regional airlines are offering higher starting salaries to attract new pilots.
- Major airlines continue to increase pay for experienced captains.
- Cargo and private jet pilots see steady demand, leading to higher pay and bonuses.
If you’re looking at becoming a pilot, now is one of the best times to enter the industry.
How Much Do Commercial Pilots Make?
If you’re aiming for a career with a commercial airline, you’re probably wondering: How much do commercial pilots make?
Salary Range for Commercial Pilots (2025 Estimates)
| Airline Type | First Officer Salary | Captain Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Major Airlines (Delta, Emirates, Lufthansa, United) | $80,000 – $150,000 | $250,000 – $400,000+ |
| Low-Cost Airlines (Ryanair, Spirit, Wizz Air) | $60,000 – $120,000 | $120,000 – $250,000 |
| Regional Airlines (SkyWest, Horizon, PSA) | $50,000 – $90,000 | $80,000 – $150,000 |
- Domestic Pilots – Fly shorter routes, meaning lower total flight hours and slightly lower salaries.
- International Pilots – Earn more per flight due to longer routes and higher per diem rates.
Extra Perks That Increase Earnings
Commercial pilots don’t just rely on base salaries. They also receive:
- Per Diem Pay – Additional earnings for time spent on layovers.
- Profit Sharing – Bonuses based on airline profitability.
- 401(k) & Retirement Contributions – Many airlines offer matching retirement plans.
- Luxury Travel Perks – Free or discounted flights for pilots and their families.
If you want consistent earnings, strong benefits, and a clear career path, commercial aviation offers one of the most stable and highest-paying pilot careers. However, salaries depend on experience, aircraft type, and airline.
How Much Do Pilots Make? Understanding the Pilot Pay Scale
How much do pilots make? That depends on experience, aircraft type, and airline. A first officer at a regional airline might start at $50,000 per year, while a senior captain flying for a major international carrier can earn over $400,000. Pilot salaries increase with flight hours, promotions, and aircraft upgrades.
Pilot Pay Scale: Salary Growth by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Airline Type | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Pilot (0–3 years) | Regional Airline | $50,000 – $90,000 |
| Mid-Career First Officer (3–7 years) | Major Airline | $90,000 – $150,000 |
| Junior Captain (7–12 years) | Major Airline | $150,000 – $250,000 |
| Senior Captain (12+ years) | International Airline | $250,000 – $400,000+ |
How Pilot Earnings Increase Over Time
- More Flight Hours = Higher Pay – Pilots with more hours logged qualify for better-paying positions.
- Captain Upgrades – Captains earn double or even triple what first officers make.
- Aircraft Size Matters – Pilots flying wide-body jets earn more than those flying smaller aircraft.
- International vs. Domestic Routes – Pilots on long-haul flights often get higher salaries and per diem pay.
Major Airlines vs. Regional Carriers: Salary Differences
Regional airline pilots typically start with lower pay but gain the experience needed to transition to major airlines, where salaries increase significantly.
A regional first officer earning $60,000 per year can move up to a major airline captain making $300,000+ after several years of experience.
This means that while entry-level pilot salaries may seem low, long-term earnings make the career one of the highest-paying professions in aviation.
How Much Do Airline Pilots Earn? Major vs. Regional Airlines
How much do pilots make at major airlines compared to regional carriers? The salary gap is huge. While regional pilots start with lower wages, major airline captains can earn more than four times as much.
Regional Airlines vs. Major Airlines: Salary Breakdown (2025 Estimates)
| Airline Type | First Officer Salary | Captain Salary | Additional Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Major Airlines (Delta, Emirates, United, Lufthansa) | $80,000 – $150,000 | $250,000 – $400,000+ | Profit-sharing, 401(k), bonuses |
| Low-Cost Airlines (Spirit, Ryanair, Wizz Air) | $60,000 – $120,000 | $120,000 – $250,000 | Travel perks, base salary bonuses |
| Regional Airlines (SkyWest, Envoy, Horizon) | $50,000 – $90,000 | $80,000 – $150,000 | Fewer benefits, lower base pay |
How Pilot Unions & Contracts Affect Salaries
Major airline pilots benefit from strong union contracts, securing higher wages, retirement benefits, and paid time off.
Regional airline pilots may work under weaker contracts with lower base pay and fewer benefits.
Beyond base salaries, airline pilots receive substantial financial perks:
- Per Diem Pay – Additional daily earnings for layovers.
- Stock & Profit-Sharing – Bonuses tied to airline performance.
- 401(k) & Pension Plans – Many airlines offer matching retirement contributions.
- Free or Discounted Flights – Pilots and their families often fly free on standby.
How much do pilots make? The answer depends on where they work, what they fly, and their career stage. If your goal is to maximize earnings, moving from regional airlines to major carriers, gaining seniority, and upgrading to captain is the best way to increase your income and benefits.
How Much Do Private Jet Pilots Make? Corporate vs. Charter Flying
How much do pilots make flying private jets? It depends on who they fly for, what aircraft they operate, and their level of experience. Unlike airline pilots, private jet pilots work for corporate executives, celebrities, government officials, or charter services.
Some fly on-demand charter flights, while others work full-time for high-net-worth individuals. Salaries vary widely, but experienced private jet captains can earn as much as major airline pilots, sometimes even more with bonuses and perks.
Salary Comparison: Private Jet Pilots vs. Airline Pilots (2025 Estimates)
| Pilot Type | Entry-Level Salary | Experienced Salary | Top Earners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corporate Jet Pilot | $60,000 – $120,000 | $130,000 – $250,000 | $300,000+ |
| Charter Jet Pilot | $50,000 – $100,000 | $120,000 – $200,000 | $250,000+ |
| Major Airline Pilot | $80,000 – $150,000 | $250,000 – $400,000+ | $400,000+ |
Perks & Benefits of Flying Private Jets
Private jet pilots often enjoy better flexibility and luxury perks compared to airline pilots:
- Flexible Schedules – Some corporate pilots work on-call rather than fixed airline rosters.
- Luxury Accommodations – Pilots flying VIPs often stay in 5-star hotels and receive high per diem rates.
- Less Intensive Flying Hours – Private jets fly fewer hours per month than commercial airlines.
Demand for Private Jet Pilots in 2025
With a surge in private jet travel, corporate aviation is hiring more pilots than ever. The demand for Gulfstream, Bombardier, and Citation pilots is increasing, making private jet flying a high-paying alternative to airline jobs.
How much do pilots make flying private jets? Many earn as much or more than airline pilots, especially with bonuses and perks. While corporate flying offers more flexibility, it also requires availability on short notice and handling high-profile clients.
How Much Do Pilots Make Flying For Highest-Paying Airlines?
Not all airlines pay the same. How much do pilots make at major carriers? Some of the highest-paying airlines offer six-figure salaries, luxury benefits, and huge bonuses to attract top talent.
Top-Paying Airlines for Pilots in 2025
| Airline | First Officer Salary | Captain Salary | Bonuses & Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emirates (UAE) | $120,000 – $180,000 | $300,000 – $400,000+ | Free housing, tax-free salary |
| Qatar Airways (Qatar) | $110,000 – $170,000 | $280,000 – $380,000+ | Housing, family benefits |
| Singapore Airlines (Singapore) | $100,000 – $160,000 | $270,000 – $350,000 | Travel perks, pension |
| Delta Air Lines (U.S.) | $90,000 – $160,000 | $250,000 – $350,000 | Profit-sharing, 401(k) |
| United Airlines (U.S.) | $95,000 – $170,000 | $260,000 – $360,000 | 401(k) match, profit-sharing |
| Lufthansa (Germany) | $90,000 – $150,000 | $240,000 – $330,000 | Pension plans, travel perks |
How Signing Bonuses & Retention Programs Increase Earnings
To combat the pilot shortage, many airlines are offering massive bonuses to attract and retain pilots:
- Sign-On Bonuses – Some airlines pay $20,000 – $50,000 upfront for new hires.
- Retention Bonuses – Additional pay for staying with an airline long-term.
- Stock Options & Profit Sharing – Pilots at major airlines earn bonuses based on company performance.
Which Airlines Offer the Best Career Growth?
- Emirates & Qatar Airways – Offer tax-free salaries and luxury accommodations.
- U.S. Legacy Airlines (Delta, United, American) – Provide high salaries, retirement plans, and job security.
- Singapore Airlines & Lufthansa – Known for strong pilot contracts and high international salaries.
How much do pilots make at top airlines? The best-paying carriers offer $250K+ salaries, premium benefits, and strong retirement plans. If maximizing salary is the goal, targeting international or major U.S. airlines is the smartest move.
How Much Do Pilots Make? Salary by Experience
How much do pilots make over the course of their careers? Salaries vary based on experience level, airline, and aircraft type, but one thing is certain: pilot pay increases significantly with time. A first officer at a regional airline may start at $50,000 per year, while a senior captain at a major airline can earn over $400,000 annually.
Salary Growth by Career Stage (2025 Estimates)
| Career Stage | Airline Type | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level First Officer (0–3 years) | Regional Airline | $50,000 – $90,000 |
| Mid-Career First Officer (3–7 years) | Major Airline | $90,000 – $150,000 |
| Junior Captain (7–12 years) | Major Airline | $150,000 – $250,000 |
| Senior Captain (12+ years) | International Airline | $250,000 – $400,000+ |
How Pilots Can Maximize Income
- Type Ratings Matter – Getting certified to fly wide-body jets (Boeing 777, Airbus A350) leads to higher salaries.
- Major Airlines Pay More – Moving from regional airlines to major carriers boosts earnings.
- Experience is Everything – The more flight hours logged, the higher the pay.
- International Flights Pay More – Flying long-haul international routes offers higher salaries and per diem allowances.
How much do pilots make over time? The salary jumps substantially with experience, making aviation one of the highest-paying career paths in the long run.
How Much Do Pilots Make? The Comparison
Not all pilots fly for commercial airlines, and not all earn the same. How much do pilots make in different aviation careers? From fighter pilots to cargo pilots and helicopter pilots, salaries vary based on industry, aircraft type, and job demands.
Salary Comparison Across Pilot Careers (2025 Estimates)
| Pilot Type | Entry-Level Salary | Experienced Salary | Top Earners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Major Airline Pilot | $80,000 – $150,000 | $250,000 – $400,000+ | $400,000+ |
| Cargo Pilot (FedEx, UPS, DHL) | $70,000 – $120,000 | $150,000 – $300,000 | $350,000+ |
| Private Jet Pilot | $60,000 – $120,000 | $130,000 – $250,000 | $300,000+ |
| Helicopter Pilot | $50,000 – $100,000 | $120,000 – $180,000 | $220,000+ |
| Fighter Pilot (Military Aviation) | $60,000 – $120,000 | $150,000+ | Benefits & Allowances |
Pros & Cons of Different Pilot Careers
| Pilot Career | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Airline Pilot | High salary potential, strong job security, travel perks | Requires years of training and experience |
| Cargo Pilot | Good pay, stable career, predictable schedules | Less glamorous than passenger airlines |
| Private Jet Pilot | Luxury travel, flexible schedules, high pay | On-call requirements, demanding clients |
| Helicopter Pilot | Exciting roles (medical, law enforcement, tourism) | Lower pay compared to fixed-wing pilots |
| Fighter Pilot | Elite status, military benefits, leadership roles | High-risk job, intense training |
How much do pilots make across different aviation careers? It depends on the sector, experience, and job demands. While major airline captains earn the most, private jet and cargo pilots also secure high-paying roles.
Conclusion
So, how much do pilots make? The answer depends on who they fly for, what aircraft they operate, and how much experience they have. A first officer at a regional airline may start at $50,000 per year, while a senior captain at a major airline can bring in $400,000+ annually.
Private jet pilots, cargo pilots, and helicopter pilots all have unique earning potential, and military aviation offers its own set of financial rewards.
Key Takeaways on Pilot Salaries
- Airline pilots earn the highest salaries, especially at major international carriers.
- Private jet pilots and cargo pilots can also make six figures, depending on experience.
- Regional airline pilots start with lower pay but can transition to higher-paying major airlines.
- Military and helicopter pilots have more structured pay scales, but benefits and career stability add value.
Is Becoming a Pilot Financially Worth It?
Absolutely—if you’re committed to the career path. While pilot training can cost $80,000 – $150,000, the long-term earning potential far outweighs the investment. With pilot salaries increasing in 2025, airlines are offering higher wages, bonuses, and better contracts to attract and retain pilots.
Final Thoughts on How Much Do Pilots Make?
If you’re considering a career in aviation, now is a great time to become a pilot. The demand for skilled aviators is growing, and salaries are at an all-time high. Whether you’re aiming for commercial aviation, corporate flying, or specialized roles, pilots have one of the most rewarding and high-paying careers in the world.
So, if you’ve ever dreamed of flying, go for it—the sky isn’t just the limit, it’s your earning potential, that answers the question; How Much Do Pilots Make?
FAQs — How Much Do Pilots Make?
Pilot salaries are one of the most searched topics in aviation. To give you a clearer picture, here are answers to the most common questions people ask about pilot pay, based on current industry data.
How much do airline pilots earn in the U.S.?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers is $226,600.
Do pilots get paid by the hour or by salary?
Most airline pilots are paid per flight hour. While salaries are often quoted annually, pay is primarily based on hours flown, typically up to 1,000 hours per year, with hourly rates varying based on experience, aircraft, and airline.
What do pilots at low-cost airlines like Allegiant or Spirit earn?
First Officers at low-cost carriers like Allegiant, Frontier, and Spirit may start at around $48,500 annually and can earn up to $174,000. Captains at these airlines can make between $137,000 and $270,000, sometimes surpassing six figures when including per diem and premium pay.
What is the average salary for new or flight instructor pilots?
Entry-level pilots, including flight instructors, often earn between $35,000 and $60,000 annually, though rates can vary by region and demand.
Can pilots make over $500,000 a year?
Yes. Pilots at top-tier major airlines, especially senior captains on international routes, can reach or exceed $400,000 annual compensation, with some earning more when bonuses and seniority are factored in.
Contact the Florida Flyers Flight Academy Team today at (904) 209-3510 to learn more about how to do the foreign pilot license conversion in 4 steps.
