How Much Money Does a Pilot Make a Year?
As a profession, being a pilot is often considered one of the most coveted and respected jobs in the world. Pilots play a critical role in ensuring the safety and smooth operation of aircraft, and their skills and expertise are highly valued by airlines and other organizations. But just how much do pilots make a year?
Average Pilot Salary
The average salary for a pilot can vary greatly depending on factors such as the type of aircraft they fly, their level of experience, and the airline or organization they work for. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for pilots in the United States was $134,630 in May 2020.
Here is a breakdown of average pilot salaries by type of aircraft:
- Airline Pilots: $134,630 (BLS, 2020)
- Commercial Pilots: $118,000 (BLS, 2020)
- Private Pilots: $85,000 (BLS, 2020)
- Military Pilots: $93,000 (BLS, 2020)
Salary Ranges by Experience
Pilot salaries also vary depending on their level of experience. Here are some approximate salary ranges for pilots with different levels of experience:
- New Pilots (0-2 years of experience): $60,000 – $80,000 per year
- Entry-Level Pilots (2-5 years of experience): $80,000 – $100,000 per year
- Experienced Pilots (5-10 years of experience): $100,000 – $120,000 per year
- Senior Pilots (10+ years of experience): $120,000 – $150,000 per year
Salary Differences by Airline
Pilot salaries also vary depending on the airline they work for. Here are some approximate salary ranges for pilots working for different airlines:
- Delta Air Lines: $120,000 – $150,000 per year
- American Airlines: $100,000 – $130,000 per year
- United Airlines: $90,000 – $120,000 per year
- Southwest Airlines: $80,000 – $110,000 per year
Additional Income Sources
Pilots can also earn additional income through various sources, such as:
- Flight Pay: $10,000 – $20,000 per year
- Overtime Pay: $5,000 – $10,000 per year
- Bonuses: $5,000 – $10,000 per year
- Per-Diem Allowance: $1,000 – $2,000 per year
Table: Pilot Salary Ranges
| Type of Pilot | Average Salary | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Airline Pilots | $134,630 | $100,000 – $150,000 |
| Commercial Pilots | $118,000 | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| Private Pilots | $85,000 | $60,000 – $100,000 |
| Military Pilots | $93,000 | $70,000 – $110,000 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, pilot salaries can vary greatly depending on factors such as the type of aircraft they fly, their level of experience, and the airline or organization they work for. While the average salary for a pilot may be $134,630 per year, salaries can range from $60,000 to $150,000 or more depending on the specific circumstances. With additional income sources such as flight pay, overtime pay, bonuses, and per-diem allowance, pilots can earn even more.
