How Much Do Airline Pilots Make?

A Deep Dive into Pilot Salaries with Air trip Masters
Becoming an airline pilot is a dream for many — the uniform, the travel, the prestige. But it’s not just about jet-setting. It’s also about responsibility, skill, and, yes — a pretty decent paycheck.
 
Different Types of Airline Pilots
Airline pilots typically fall into two roles: First Officers (co-pilots) and Captains. Pay varies based on these titles, as well as the aircraft type, routes flown, and even the airline.

Factors That Influence Airline Pilot Salaries

Experience and Seniority

Experience is everything in aviation. The more hours you log, the more valuable you become. A rookie pilot might make $40,000 annually, while a seasoned captain at a major airline can earn $300,000 or more.

Type of Aircraft Flown

Flying a Boeing 777 pays more than a small regional jet. Wide-body aircraft come with bigger responsibilities — and bigger paychecks.

Airline Company Size and Type

A pilot flying for Delta, United, or Emirates will earn significantly more than someone flying for a small regional airline or budget carrier.

Geographic Location

Pilots based in North America or the Middle East usually earn more than those in South America or Southeast Asia due to economic factors and demand.

Entry-Level Airline Pilot Salaries

How Much Do First Officers Make?

First Officers at regional airlines in the U.S. typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 in their first year. Larger carriers might offer closer to $75,000-$100,000, especially if there’s a pilot shortage.

Training Costs vs. Starting Pay

Becoming a pilot is expensive — often over $100,000 in training costs. That makes the first few years financially challenging, but the payoff can be well worth it.

Mid-Level Airline Pilot Salaries

Climbing the Pay Ladder

After 5-10 years of experience, pilots often move to major carriers or become Captains at regionals. At this stage, salaries can range from $120,000 to $160,000 per year.

Average Pay After 5-10 Years

Pilots in this bracket generally enjoy better schedules, more days off, and increased hourly pay, usually between $100-$150 per flight hour.

Senior Airline Pilot Salaries

What Do Captains Earn?

Captains — the top-tier seat — often make $200,000 to over $350,000 annually. This depends on factors like aircraft type, base location, and tenure with the airline.

How Seniority and Routes Matter

Pilots flying international routes or long-haul flights earn more. A senior captain flying an Airbus A350 internationally may make close to $400,000/year with bonuses and per diems.

Pilot Salaries by Airline Type

Major Airlines

Delta, American Airlines, and Lufthansa pay their senior captains top dollar, often over $300,000 annually.

Regional Airlines

Starting pay here is lowest, often $40,000–$60,000, but some offer hiring bonuses or tuition reimbursement to attract talent.

Charter & Cargo Airlines

Companies like FedEx and UPS pay extremely well — often matching or exceeding major passenger airlines.

Low-Cost Carriers

Budget airlines like Ryanair or Spirit may pay less, but often offer faster promotions due to high turnover.

Pilot Pay Around the World

United States

One of the highest-paying countries for pilots. Captains earn $200k–$350k+.

Europe

Pilot pay is moderate, with a wide range based on the country. Western Europe pays more than Eastern Europe.

Middle East

Airlines like Emirates and Qatar Airways offer generous packages — often tax-free — with salaries of $250,000+.

Asia

China and Singapore have recently boosted pilot pay due to pilot shortages, with packages exceeding $300,000 in some cases.

Airline Pilot Benefits Beyond Salary

Per Diems and Layover Pay

Pilots get paid daily allowances for meals and lodging during trips — these add thousands to their annual income.

Health Insurance and Retirement

Pilots usually enjoy excellent medical benefits and retirement packages, especially with legacy carriers.

Travel Perks

Free or discounted flights for pilots and their families? Yes, please!

Private vs. Commercial Pilot Salaries

Private jet pilots may earn less than commercial airline pilots, but they enjoy flexible schedules and personalized flight experiences. On average:

How COVID-19 Changed Pilot Pay

The pandemic grounded fleets and slashed salaries. Some pilots were furloughed, others faced pay cuts. However, the recovery has led to demand-driven raises and hiring booms, especially in North America and Asia.

Future Salary Trends in Aviation

Pilot shortages are real. As demand for air travel returns and older pilots retire, salaries are expected to rise. More airlines are offering signing bonuses and better benefits to attract fresh talent.

How to Become an Airline Pilot

 
Steps from Student to Captain

Investment vs. Reward

Training can cost $80,000–$150,000, but with the potential to earn $300,000/year later in your career, it’s a long-term investment.

Is It Worth Becoming an Airline Pilot Today?

Absolutely — if you’re passionate about flying, ready for a rigorous training path, and eager for long-term financial gain. With rising salaries, strong benefits, and unmatched travel perks, now is a great time to take off with a career in aviation.

Conclusion

Being an airline pilot isn’t just a job — it’s a lifestyle. While it requires investment, long hours, and continuous learning, the rewards can be sky-high. With salaries ranging from $40,000 to over $350,000 annually, plus benefits, bonuses, and perks, the aviation industry continues to offer a lucrative and exciting career path. Whether you’re just starting or ready to climb to the captain’s seat, Airtrip Masters is here to guide you through the clouds.

FAQs

Typically, 2–5 years depending on training pace and hours accumulated.

Usually no — most pilot training is self-funded, but some airlines offer paid cadet programs.

Yes! Many pilots do freelance flying, instructing, or consulting on the side.

Often, yes — especially in the Middle East and Asia, where demand is high and packages are lucrative.

On average, 75–85 flight hours/month, but prep, layovers, and delays mean longer workweeks overall.