Commercial Airline Pilot Salary: How Much Airline Pilots Make in 2025

Flying is a rewarding career, both financially and in terms of job satisfaction, making an airline pilot career highly desirable. There is a wide range of opportunities available in aviation careers, offering various pathways for growth and advancement. Pilots undertake intensive training to develop a highly unique skill set. As a result, commercial pilots are paid well and today, enjoy the benefits of a high-demand career in a growing job market.

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Introduction to the Airline Industry

The airline industry stands as one of the most dynamic and essential sectors in the global economy, responsible for connecting people and goods across continents. At the heart of this industry are airline pilots—highly trained professionals who ensure the safety and efficiency of every flight. The complexity of modern aircraft and the responsibility of transporting hundreds of passengers or valuable cargo demand a high level of expertise, which is reflected in the compensation these professionals receive.

Labor statistics consistently show that pilots working for major airlines and operating larger, more advanced aircraft tend to earn higher wages. The aviation industry’s commitment to safety and operational excellence ensures that qualified pilots remain in high demand, making this a rewarding and stable career choice.

Annual Pilot Salary Range

According to the May 2024 Occupational Outlook Handbook, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that airline pilot salaries vary significantly, with the salary for commercial pilots being $ per year. The median annual wage for airline pilots, copilots and flight engineers is $. Year-over-year, this was almost a $10,000 increase, as compared to 2023. In addition to annual earnings, pilots take part in company health, life and disability insurance, and retirement plans. In many cases, these plans exceed what employees in other fields receive. Salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics also helps illustrate industry trends and regional differences in pilot wages.

Pilot Pay Structure How Pilots Get Paid

Airline pilots are compensated through a multifaceted pay structure that includes a base salary, hourly pay, and a range of benefits. This structure is designed to account for various factors such as experience, seniority, and the type of aircraft flown. Typically, pilots receive a base salary that is paid monthly, which can range from $50,000 to over $200,000 per year depending on the airline and the pilot’s experience.

In addition to the base salary, pilots earn an hourly wage for each flight hour. This hourly rate can vary significantly, from $50 to over $200 per hour, influenced by the airline, aircraft type, and the pilot’s experience. For instance, a senior captain flying a large international aircraft for a major airline will earn a higher hourly rate compared to a junior first officer flying a regional jet. Most airlines guarantee a minimum number of flight hours per month, but federal law also limits the maximum number of flight hours per year to ensure safety and adequate rest for pilots.

Beyond the base salary and hourly pay, airline pilots receive comprehensive benefits packages. These typically include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. The specifics of these benefits can vary by airline and the pilot’s seniority, but they are generally designed to be competitive and attractive, making the pilot career not only financially rewarding but also secure and stable.