What does an Airline Pilot earn?

On average, airline pilots earn around $198,190 per year in the U.S. Pilots operate aircraft on flights ranging from domestic to international and are responsible for the safety of passengers, crew, and cargo. A pilot may opt to specialise in a particular type of flying such as long-distance shuttle services, relief aid, or passenger charters.

How to earn more as an Airline Pilot

To become an airline pilot you will need to gain your Commercial Pilot Licence. This involves accumulating a minimum of 200 hours of flight time, passing aeronautical knowledge exams, and completing a medical fitness test. You will also need the relevant type ratings for the aircraft you want to fly. Once you have gained the required qualifications and experience, you may apply for co-pilot positions with airlines. To gain more senior positions and command a higher salary as an airline pilot, you can move into more specialised areas of aviation, such as air ambulance flying, corporate chartering, or work as an examiner or instructor. It is also possible to become self-employed or to set up their own air chartering business.