How Much Does a United Pilot Make?
As one of the largest and most prestigious airlines in the world, United Airlines is a coveted employer for many aspiring pilots. But what does it take to become a United pilot, and more importantly, how much do they make? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of United Airlines pilots and provide a comprehensive answer to this question.
Becoming a United Pilot
Before we dive into the salary, let’s take a look at the requirements to become a United pilot. Here are the key steps:
- Age: You must be at least 23 years old to apply for a First Officer position and at least 30 years old to apply for a Captain position.
- Education: You must have a bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university.
- Flight Experience: You must have a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight time, including 500 hours of cross-country flight time, 100 hours of night flight time, and 75 hours of instrument flying time.
- Licenses and Ratings: You must hold an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and a Type Rating for the specific aircraft you’ll be flying.
United Pilot Salary
Now that we’ve covered the requirements, let’s talk about the salary. United Airlines pilots are among the highest-paid in the industry. Here’s a breakdown of the average salary for United pilots:
| Position | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| First Officer (F/O) | $104,000 – $150,000 | $50 – $72 per hour |
| Captain (CPT) | $160,000 – $250,000 | $77 – $120 per hour |
Benefits and Bonuses
In addition to their base salary, United pilots also receive a range of benefits and bonuses, including:
- Profit Sharing: United pilots are eligible for a profit-sharing bonus, which is paid out annually based on the airline’s profitability.
- Vacation Time: United pilots receive a generous amount of vacation time, including 20 days off per year, plus 10 paid holidays.
- Health Insurance: United pilots are eligible for comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Retirement Plan: United pilots are eligible for a 401(k) retirement plan, with a company match of up to 6%.
Promotion and Career Advancement
United pilots have opportunities for career advancement and promotion, including:
- Captain (CPT): With a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight time and 500 hours of cross-country flight time, pilots can apply for a Captain position.
- Check Airman (CA): Experienced captains can apply for a Check Airman position, which involves conducting safety inspections and evaluating pilot performance.
- Instructor (INST): Experienced captains can also apply for an Instructor position, which involves training new pilots.
Conclusion
In conclusion, United Airlines pilots are among the highest-paid in the industry, with average salaries ranging from $104,000 to $250,000 per year. In addition to their base salary, United pilots also receive a range of benefits and bonuses, including profit sharing, vacation time, health insurance, and a retirement plan. With opportunities for career advancement and promotion, becoming a United pilot is a coveted goal for many aspiring pilots.
