How Much Does an Airline Pilot Make a Year?
As a profession, being an airline pilot is both exciting and challenging. With the responsibility of safely transporting thousands of passengers around the world, pilots play a crucial role in the aviation industry. But one of the most common questions about this profession is how much do airline pilots make a year?
Average Salary of Airline Pilots
The answer to this question varies greatly depending on factors such as the airline, location, type of aircraft, and level of experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for airline pilots in the United States was $134,630 in May 2020.
Airline Pilot Salary Ranges
Here are some average salary ranges for airline pilots in the United States:
- First Officer: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
- Captain: $80,000 – $120,000 per year
- Senior Captain: $120,000 – $160,000 per year
- International Captain: $160,000 – $200,000 per year
Factors Affecting Airline Pilot Salaries
Several factors contribute to the variation in airline pilot salaries:
- Airline: Different airlines offer different salaries. Major carriers like Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines typically pay higher salaries than regional carriers.
- Location: Pilots flying international routes or based in high-cost-of-living cities tend to earn higher salaries.
- Type of Aircraft: Pilots flying larger, more complex aircraft, such as Boeing 747s or Airbus A380s, typically earn higher salaries than those flying smaller planes.
- Level of Experience: More experienced pilots tend to earn higher salaries.
- Seniority: Pilots with more seniority may earn higher salaries due to their higher rank and more desirable schedules.
Benefits and Bonuses
In addition to their base salary, airline pilots often receive various benefits and bonuses, including:
- Housing Allowance: Some airlines provide a housing allowance to pilots flying international routes.
- Per Diem: Pilots may receive a daily stipend for meals and expenses while flying.
- Bonuses: Airlines may offer bonuses for things like perfect attendance, excellent safety records, or meeting certain performance targets.
- Retirement Benefits: Many airlines offer generous retirement packages, including defined benefit pension plans and 401(k) matching.
Salary Comparison by Airline
Here is a comparison of average salaries for pilots at some major airlines:
| Airline | First Officer | Captain | Senior Captain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta Air Lines | $74,000 | $115,000 | $140,000 |
| American Airlines | $72,000 | $110,000 | $135,000 |
| United Airlines | $70,000 | $105,000 | $130,000 |
| Southwest Airlines | $62,000 | $90,000 | $110,000 |
| Alaska Airlines | $60,000 | $85,000 | $100,000 |
Conclusion
The salary for an airline pilot can vary significantly depending on factors such as the airline, location, type of aircraft, and level of experience. While the median annual salary for airline pilots in the United States is $134,630, it’s not uncommon for pilots to earn upwards of $200,000 per year. With the various benefits and bonuses they receive, airline pilots are well-compensated for their hard work and dedication to ensuring the safety of their passengers.
Salary Estimates by Level of Experience
Here is a breakdown of average salary estimates by level of experience:
- New Hire: $50,000 – $70,000 per year
- 5-10 Years of Experience: $70,000 – $100,000 per year
- 10-20 Years of Experience: $100,000 – $140,000 per year
- 20+ Years of Experience: $140,000 – $180,000 per year
Tips for Becoming an Airline Pilot
If you’re interested in becoming an airline pilot, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Gain flight experience: Accumulate as much flight experience as possible by flying for small airlines, charter companies, or even private pilots.
- Get a degree: A bachelor’s degree in a field like aeronautical science, aviation, or a related field is often required.
- Obtain a commercial pilot’s license: Obtain a commercial pilot’s license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
- Build hours: Build a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight experience to be eligible for most airline pilot positions.
- Network: Network with other pilots and attend industry events to learn about job opportunities and stay up-to-date on industry trends.
