How Much Do Air Force Pilots Make?
The United States Air Force (USAF) is one of the most respected and prestigious military branches in the world, with a long history of excellence in aviation. As a pilot in the Air Force, you’ll have the opportunity to fly some of the most advanced aircraft in the world, while also serving your country and earning a competitive salary. But just how much do Air Force pilots make?
Entry-Level Pay
Before we dive into the salaries of Air Force pilots, it’s important to note that pay scales vary depending on the pilot’s rank, experience, and specialty. As an entry-level pilot, you’ll start at the rank of Second Lieutenant (O-1), which is equivalent to a Lieutenant in the Navy or Army.
According to the USAF’s 2022 pay scale, an O-1 pilot with zero years of experience can expect to earn a base pay of $3,287.10 per month, or $39,444.00 per year. This is before bonuses, allowances, and other forms of compensation.
Rank-Based Pay
As you gain experience and advance in rank, your pay will increase accordingly. Here’s a breakdown of the pay scales for Air Force pilots at different ranks:
| Rank | Pay Scale (2022) |
|---|---|
| O-1 (Second Lieutenant) | $3,287.10 – $4,364.50 per month |
| O-2 (First Lieutenant) | $3,744.20 – $5,164.40 per month |
| O-3 (Captain) | $4,243.20 – $6,164.80 per month |
| O-4 (Major) | $5,344.20 – $7,464.80 per month |
| O-5 (Lieutenant Colonel) | $6,454.20 – $8,784.80 per month |
| O-6 (Colonel) | $7,964.20 – $10,104.80 per month |
| O-7 (Brigadier General) | $9,464.20 – $11,424.80 per month |
| O-8 (Major General) | $11,464.20 – $13,424.80 per month |
| O-9 (Lieutenant General) | $13,464.20 – $15,424.80 per month |
| O-10 (General) | $15,464.20 – $17,424.80 per month |
Specialty Pay
In addition to their rank-based pay, Air Force pilots can also earn additional compensation for their specialty. For example:
- Aerial Refueling: Pilots who specialize in aerial refueling can earn an additional $500 – $1,000 per month.
- Combat Pilots: Pilots who fly combat missions can earn an additional $1,000 – $2,000 per month.
- Test Pilots: Pilots who work as test pilots can earn an additional $1,000 – $2,000 per month.
Bonuses and Allowances
Air Force pilots can also earn bonuses and allowances to supplement their pay. These can include:
- Flight Pay: A monthly bonus of $250 – $500 for pilots who fly a certain number of hours per month.
- Duty Pay: A monthly bonus of $50 – $100 for pilots who serve in high-demand specialties or locations.
- Hazardous Duty Pay: A monthly bonus of $50 – $100 for pilots who serve in high-risk environments or perform high-risk duties.
Comparison to Other Military Branches
While Air Force pilots’ salaries are competitive, they may not be the highest in the military. Here’s a comparison of pilot salaries across the different military branches:
| Branch | Starting Pay (2022) |
|---|---|
| Air Force | $3,287.10 per month (O-1) |
| Navy | $3,744.40 per month (Ensign) |
| Army | $3,747.10 per month (Second Lieutenant) |
| Marine Corps | $3,944.10 per month (Second Lieutenant) |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Air Force pilots’ salaries vary depending on their rank, experience, and specialty. While entry-level pilots may start at a base pay of around $39,000 per year, experienced pilots can earn upwards of $150,000 per year. With bonuses, allowances, and specialty pay, Air Force pilots can earn a highly competitive salary while serving their country.
Here’s a summary of the key points:
- Entry-level pilots start at a base pay of around $39,000 per year
- Pay scales vary depending on rank, experience, and specialty
- Pilots can earn additional compensation for specialties such as aerial refueling, combat flying, and test piloting
- Bonuses and allowances can supplement pilots’ pay, including flight pay, duty pay, and hazardous duty pay
- Air Force pilots’ salaries are competitive, but may not be the highest in the military
By becoming an Air Force pilot, you’ll not only be serving your country, but you’ll also have the opportunity to earn a highly competitive salary and benefits package.
