Top 10 Highest Paid Airline Pilots in the World | 2022 (2024)

Top 10 Highest Paid Airline Pilots in the World | 2022 (1)

You would be intrigued by the awesomeness of piloting. Hence, the saying “If you could fly, your earnings fly higher” Giorgio.

The aviation industry avails the most lucrative career opportunities. The allowances enjoyed by pilots include luxurious tours, all-expense-paid hotels, free medical insurance, flexible schedules, and obviously, amazing salaries.

A freshman student, Jane, had the opportunity to interview a pilot, Giorgio Coleman, who worked in one of the top 10 highest-paid airlines in the United States.

On the day of the interview, Jane arrived at the Hilton hotel, Fiumicino. She makes her way to the lobby to announce her arrival to the receptionist. Astonishingly, Giorgio was already waiting for her at the conference hall. Punctuality, of course, is one of the virtues of every successful pilot.

She reached out her hand for handshakes but was reminded of the new global etiquette due to the Covid-19 pandemic. She introduced herself briefly and began the research.

Before we continue with the story, it is important to note that pilots enjoy allowances like luxurious tours, all-expense-paid hotels, free medical insurance, flexible schedules, and obviously, amazing salaries.

Now, back to the story!

ADMISSION INTO AVIATION COMPANY

Giorgio began by describing the procedures for becoming a pilot. To become a pilot, take a key interest in studying mathematics, languages, geography, physics, communications, and chemistry.

Good mathematical knowledge enables you to make basic calculations which is a basic requirement for all Pilots.

In addition, these and others are the requirements to work as a pilot in order to work and earn with one of the highest paying airlines.

Languages are important, especially English, the official language of the International Civil Aviation Organization, ICAO. The ICAO requires a minimum English Language proficiency in level four, or level 6.0 score in the Test of English as a Foreign Language, TOEFL, or by the International English Language Testing Service, IELTS.

Comprehensive knowledge of geography is essential as well since countries are positioned differently across the globe. Hence, knowledge of countries’ longitudes, latitudes, and distances from the equator is crucial. It is pertinent to learn how to use a map reader correctly. Know your wind speed, climates, and seasons of countries. Knowledge of the characteristics of Seas, Oceans, and lakes is necessary.

Physics is one of the most important topics for piloting. A good pilot understands aerodynamics. A cognizant aerodynamic topic like forces, power, weight, lift, drag, and thrust makes piloting interesting.

Communication and teamwork are also required, especially for commercial pilots. In fact, to fly with a single or multi-engine aircraft, you must communicate efficiently with your flight instructor, crew and many others.

RELATED: How Much Does Foundation Repair Cost In Texas?

Chemistry is one of the least important classes to become a pilot. Apart from understanding weather reactions, knowing chemicals would help a pilot determine the kind of smell he perceives on board.

Below we will list the highest Paid Airline Pilots in the world.

HOW DO I GET A PILOT’S CERTIFICATION OR LICENSING?

Licenses or Aviation certificates are required before piloting. Hence, one who already has a Private Piloting License, PPL, needs to have a Commercial Pilot License, CPL, before flying passengers.

You need to study the Instrument meteorological conditions, IMC conditions for single and multi-Engine aircraft. Before achieving the CPL certification, you should be 18 years or older. Also, you will need to have a medical 1.

In addition, you should have a theoretical knowledge of flight fundamentals. Undergo a Night rating of 50 hours total flight time and another 50 hours pilot in command sections.

Once those steps are completed, you’ll be licensed to fly commercial airlines. Should you wish to fly with co-pilots, you’ll need to have a multi-crew pilot License.

With this, you’ll realize that it takes a whole lot to become one of the highest Paid Airline Pilots.

How Much is an Airline Pilot Salary?

Airline pilot salary is dependent on a number of factors like age, certifications, employer, and a host of others.

According to epic flight academy, United Airlines pilots earn an average of $205, 000. While Delta Airlines pilot earns $192, 000 with top earners in the industry earning $526, 000.

In the US, the averagecharterpilot salaryis approximately $75,000. On the other hand, commercial pilots’ salary is estimated to be $93, 000 annually.

It is important to note that airline pilot salary figures are estimates. They could be more or less depending on one or more of the factors listed above.

How Much Do Pilots Make?

You can make a lot as a pilot. Forbes opines that an airline pilot earns an average of $174, 870. This pilot earning is more than triple the average wage for all occupations.

According to thrust flight, airline pilots’ salary is higher than most time building jobs in the US. Other factors may influence how much you make as a pilot.

What Airline Pays the Most for Pilots?

Although United airline is the best airline to work for as a pilot, Southwest airline pays the most for pilots.

Pilots who work for United Airline also earn a substantial amount. In fact, the pay for new pilots is highest with United Airlines.

RELATED: Top 13 Unblocked Music Sites For Schools And Colleges

Pilots at United Airline also enjoy excellent medical insurance, free flights, adoption assistance services, and many others.

What are the Salaries of International Commercial Pilots?

Currencies and exchange rates play vital roles when making arguments like this: do pilots make millions as salaries?

This is the fact, pilots on international flights are the highest-paid earning an average salary of $115,950.

Salaries of pilots vary across states in the USA. Factors like gender, education, the type of Boeing a pilot fly, and his level of experience in practice determine his salaries.

Generally, pilots make millions.

Also read: Top 10 Colleges with The Highest Paid Graduates in the World |2022

TOP 10 HIGHEST PAID AIRLINES FOR PILOTS IN USA, 2022

1. Alaska Airline:

As one of the oldest airlines in the United States, Alaska Airlines maintains an impeccable reputation with its employees.

This 77-year-old aviation company came to light in 1944.

The salaries of pilots across this industry range from $93,000 to 190,000 for a first officer who had worked in the company for a year to 12 years, respectively.

For captains who just resumed, the airline pilot salary is $226,000, and earn up to $266,000 in 12 years of service.

Alaska Airlines has one of the highest-paid airline pilots in the world.

2. Delta Airline:

This airline has been operating for about 92 years which is 1929. Its subsidiary airlines include Virginia Atlanta, Endeavor air, etc.

In the first year of practice, a first officer earns approximately $92,000. By her 12th year of practice, he earns $232,000. Whereas a captain earns between $325,000 to $354,000.

This airline also has one of the highest paid pilots.

Read: Top 10 Highest Paid CEOs In The World

3. United airlines:

It was founded in the year 1926 and has Its headquarters in Chicago, Illinois.

The annual salaries for pilots who work in the United range from $91,000 to $240,000 for first officers. This makes it one of the airlines with the highest paid pilots in the world.

For Captains, the annual salary is approximately $323,000 to $352,000 depending on the years of experience in practice.

4. American Airways:

This Airline has its headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas. It was founded on April 15, 1926.

As a long-lasting aviation company, it has one of the highest-paid airline pilots with salaries ranging from $90,000 to $245,000. For seniors, an annual salary ranges from 314,000 to 342,000. See other top-paying jobs in America

5. Jet blue Airways:

Jetblue was founded in the year 1998. This 22-year-old aviation company has its headquarters in Long Island City, New York.

RELATED: How to get UK Driving License in 2022 | Full Guide

It pays its first officer pilots about $89,000 within the first years of service. Within 12 years of the pilot’s work, he earns $180,000. The captains are the highest paid airline pilots and they earn from $234,000 to $269,000.

6. Southwest Airline:

As a company founded in March 15, 1967, the fee for her pilots is rated number six in the United States, 2022. Her headquarters is situated in Dallas, Texas.

A first-time officer earns $84,000 to $191,000 annually. The salaries for Captains range from $241,000 to $274,000.

Also read: Highest Paid Truck Drivers in the World | 10 Best countries

7. Spirit Airlines:

As a prominent company founded 39 years ago in the year 1983, Southwest Airline is one of the oldest operating Airlines in Miramar, Florida.

Pilots who work in this company earn $59,000 in the first year and progresses to $167,000. After a year of becoming a captain, the salaries increase from 189,000 to 252,000.

Captains are the highest paid airline pilots in Spirit.

8. Frontier Airlines:

Frontier Airlines is founded in the year February 8, 1994. As a thriving young aviation company, it’s headquarters is situated in Denver, Colorado.

Its annual salary for first officers is from $58,000 to $162,000. For captains, the salary of a captain is from $184,000 to $1245,000.

9. Sun Country Airline:

The headquarters of this company is located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was founded in the year 1982.

It pays pilots from $52,000 to $122,000. For captains, the salary ranges from $116,000 to $189,000.

10. Hawaiin Airline:

The Headquarters is located in Honolulu, Hawaii. It was founded in the year 1929.

This airline is the last in the top 10 highest paying aviation companies/airlines for pilots.

First-time officers earn approximately 201,000 to 288,000. For captains, the salary ranges from $300,000 to $327,000.

Conclusion

Jane was delighted to have had this opportunity. She had learned the procedures for becoming an airline pilot, the annual salaries of the top 10 highest paid airlines pilots in the USA, and definitely made a great impact.

Indeed, pilots make millions and if you can fly, the higher your earnings.

References

Recommendation

Top 10 Highest Paid Airline Pilots in the World | 2022 (2024)

FAQs

Which airline pays highest salary to pilots in World? ›

Five highest-paying airlines in the world for pilots
  • Spirit Airlines. Spirit Airlines is a major American ultra-low-cost carrier operating throughout the US, Caribbean, and Latin America. ...
  • Frontier Airlines. ...
  • American Airways. ...
  • Sun Country Airlines. ...
  • Hawaiian Airlines.
27 Aug 2022

Who is the No 1 pilot in the world? ›

Charles Yeager was a former fighter pilot and officer in the United States Air Force. Yeager is widely regarded as the best pilot in the world, with a vast list of achievements to support that claim. He was the first pilot ever to travel faster than the speed of sound, attaining Mach 1.07 in 1947.

Which type of pilot has highest salary? ›

Airline Pilot - Average Salary

The average salary for an Airline Pilot is ₹46,87,900 per year (₹3,90,650 per month), which is ₹43,00,400 (+1110%) higher than the national average salary in India. An Airline Pilot can expect an average starting salary of ₹11,25,100.

Which country is best for pilot? ›

List Of Countries Best Known For Aviation Courses
  • The UK. Being home to the Royal Air Force, the United Kingdom has a rich history in the field of aviation. ...
  • The Philippines. ...
  • Greece. ...
  • The US. ...
  • Australia.

Which airline pays highest salary to pilots 2022? ›

Highest-paying airlines in the world for pilots in 2022
  • Alaska Airlines - $199,298 per year.
  • Delta Airlines - $184,133 per year. ...
  • Hawaiian Airlines - $150,001 per year. ...
  • Sun Country Airlines - $124,072 per year. ...
  • American Airways - $121,047 per year. ...
  • Frontier Airlines - $116,692 per year. ...
  • Spirit Airlines - $114,494 per year. ...
16 May 2022

Who is the best female pilot? ›

1. Amelia Earhart. Amelia Earhart was an American aviation pioneer who earned her pilot license in 1923. She set a record as the first woman to fly across North America, and another one as the first woman to fly solo, non-stop, across the Atlantic.

Who is the best pilot today? ›

The IGC Ranking List
Ranking PositionName
1-Sebastian Kawa
29Felipe Levin
318Ivan Novak
482Christophe Abadie
16 more rows

Which job is best in pilot? ›

8 high-paying pilot jobs
  • Cargo pilot.
  • Flight instructor.
  • Airline transport pilot.
  • Agricultural pilot.
  • Ambulatory pilot.
  • Helicopter pilot.
  • Government service pilot.
  • Military pilot.

Which job has highest salary? ›

Top 11 Highest Paying Jobs in India
  • Medical Professionals (Doctors and Surgeons)
  • Data Scientist.
  • Machine Learning Experts.
  • Blockchain Developer.
  • Full Stack Software Developer.
  • Product Management.
  • Management Consultant.
  • Investment Banker.
4 Aug 2022

Is pilot a good job? ›

Aviation is a rewarding career that offers personal and career growth opportunities. Pilots earn competitive salaries with opportunities to further their careers in the co*ckpit or broaden their career path into aviation management.

What is the highest paying job in the world? ›

The highest paying career in the world is a Neurosurgeon. This is a highly trained surgeon that has chosen to specialise in, diagnose and surgically treat disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system.

What is the best pilot school? ›

10 BEST SCHOOLS FOR A COMMERCIAL PILOT DEGREE
  • Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
  • The Ohio State University.
  • Purdue University.
  • Lewis University.
  • University of North Dakota.
  • Florida Institute of Technology.
  • Western Michigan University.
  • Utah Valley University.
3 Sept 2022

Which country is cheapest for pilot? ›

The Philippines is one of the cheapest nations globally for pilot training and getting a pilot's license. Students can usually complete their courses for roughly INR 9-10 lakh in this country. Australia is also comparatively cheaper in this regard along with Poland and Nigeria.

How many hours do pilots work? ›

Airline pilots fly an average of 75 hours per month and work an additional 150 hours per month performing other duties, such as checking weather conditions and preparing flight plans. Pilots have variable work schedules that may include several days of work followed by some days off.

How much do Emirates pilots earn? ›

Handsome packages. According to current estimates, an Emirates airline captain, who flies the Airbus A380 and the B777, would earn a basic salary of Dh42,695 and a housing allowance of Dh16,075 plus average flying pay. In total, the person in that role earns more than Dh58,000 per month.

What is a Delta pilot salary? ›

Pilot pay at Delta Air Lines ranges from $64,000 per year to $257,000 per year. [

Who is the most beautiful pilot? ›

6 of the World's Hottest Lady Pilots
  • Angelina Jolie. Image via Flickr by rocor. ...
  • Gisele Bundchen. Image via Flickr by Bob Bekian. ...
  • Hilary Swank. Image via Flickr by myalexis. ...
  • Liu Yang. Chances you'll get a date: not good since China only chooses married pilots to become astronauts. ...
  • Kate Moran. ...
  • Jackie Parker.
1 Jul 2022

What is a lady pilot called? ›

Women pilots were also formerly called "aviatrices" (singular "aviatrix"). Women have been flying powered aircraft since 1908; prior to 1970, however, most were restricted to working privately or in support roles in the aviation industry. Aviation also allowed women to "travel alone on unprecedented journeys".

Can female pilots wear heels? ›

The shoes also pose a potential safety hazard in the case of an emergency situation. "Experts are against the wearing of heels on planes due to how much they compromise the safety of passengers," explains Michelle Halpern, a travel expert and founding editor of Live Like it's the Weekend.

Who kills the most air to air? ›

Erich Hartmann, with 352 official kills the highest scoring fighter pilot of all time.

Who is the US best fighter pilot? ›

Top Image: Major Richard Bong courtesy of the US Air Force. Known as the “Ace of Aces” for his rank as the top American flying ace during World War II, Major Richard Ira Bong is credited with the downing of an impressive confirmed total of 40 enemy aircraft over the course of his career as a fighter pilot.

Who is the greatest fighter pilot in the world? ›

Erich Alfred Hartmann (19 April 1922 – 20 September 1993) was a German fighter pilot during World War II and the most successful fighter ace in the history of aerial warfare.

Is pilot exam hard? ›

Of these, RT (Radio Telephony) is the toughest exam and one will take an average of 7 to 10 attempts to pass. Of the other 5 exams, difficulty level is as follows.
...
Difficulty Levels.
ExamDifficulty levelApprox, no. of attempts
Technical SpecificEasiest1
Air RegulationsMedium1-3
Aviation MeteorologyMedium1-3
3 more rows

Is pilot hard to study? ›

Studying to become a pilot is no real joke. It involves a lot of hard work, sleepless nights, and a great deal of actual flying. Like all students, aspiring pilots like you also experience the difficulty that comes with understanding lessons, concepts, and theories.

Is flight school easy? ›

Many students begin flight training because becoming a pilot seems glamorous or looks adventurous. But when it comes down to it, flight training is simply a lot of hard work. The countless hours studying pay off in the end.

Which is the best job in the world? ›

Get Matched!
  • Information Security Analyst. #1 in 100 Best Jobs. ...
  • Nurse Practitioner. #2 in 100 Best Jobs. ...
  • Physician Assistant. #3 in 100 Best Jobs. ...
  • Medical and Health Services Manager. #4 in 100 Best Jobs. ...
  • Software Developer. #5 in 100 Best Jobs. ...
  • Data Scientist. #6 in 100 Best Jobs. ...
  • Financial Manager. #7 in 100 Best Jobs. ...
  • Statistician.

Which job is best for girls? ›

Top 10 Best Career Options For Women And Girls In India 2022
  1. Human Resources. A highly sought-after corporate job in the present-day world is the Human Resource Manager. ...
  2. Doctor. ...
  3. Data Scientist. ...
  4. Fashion Designer. ...
  5. Journalist. ...
  6. Banker. ...
  7. Career Counselor. ...
  8. Interior Designer.

Which job is best for future? ›

Best Future Careers Options In India
  1. Data Scientist. Due to the increasing amount of data that organizations collect, the field of data science is becoming more popular. ...
  2. Data Analyst. ...
  3. Blockchain Developer. ...
  4. Digital Marketer. ...
  5. Cloud Computing Professional. ...
  6. AI and ML Engineer. ...
  7. MBA Manager. ...
  8. Software Developer.
20 May 2022

Which is better doctor or pilot? ›

It depends. Both professions are well respected and not necessarily easy. If you're want the better salary and more flexible hours than becoming a pilot is a given. If you solely want to help people and don't care much about the salary and hours then go down the medicine route.

Are pilots happy? ›

Pilots are one of the happiest careers in the United States. At CareerExplorer, we conduct an ongoing survey with millions of people and ask them how satisfied they are with their careers. As it turns out, pilots rate their career happiness 3.8 out of 5 stars which puts them in the top 15% of careers.

Is pilot a stressful job? ›

“The ups and downs are constant, and we fly at all different times of the day,” Deitz says. “It's a stress on your body.” Takeoff and landing are the trickiest parts of a given flight, requiring all of a pilot's attention and mental energy.

Which country has highest salary? ›

Here are the nations in the world that pay the most.
...
These are the countries with the Highest Average Salaries, 2022.
RankCountryAverage Monthly Net Salary (US$)
1Switzerland6142.1
2Singapore4350.79
3Australia4218.89
4United States3721.64
101 more rows
15 Aug 2022

What is the highest paid job in the world 2022? ›

Highest Paying Careers
  • Architectural and Engineering Managers.
  • Marketing Managers.
  • Natural Sciences Managers.
  • Petroleum Engineers.
  • Podiatrists.
  • Financial Managers.
  • Sales Managers.
  • Lawyers.
3 days ago

What is the lowest paying job? ›

25 of the Lowest Paying Jobs
  • Food-Preparation Workers. ...
  • Gambling Dealers. ...
  • Gambling Change Persons and Booth Cashiers. ...
  • Parking Lot Attendants. ...
  • Non-Farm Animal Caretakers. ...
  • Maids and Housekeepers. ...
  • Entertainment Attendants and Related Workers. ...
  • Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders.
13 Sept 2022

Which airline is best for pilots? ›

Delta pilots are some of the highest-paid in the US, with an average salary of $108,311 per year. In addition to a high salary, Delta Airlines pilots also receive excellent benefits, including free travel for their families and medical insurance. And its past employees are very happy about it.

How much do Emirates pilots earn? ›

Handsome packages. According to current estimates, an Emirates airline captain, who flies the Airbus A380 and the B777, would earn a basic salary of Dh42,695 and a housing allowance of Dh16,075 plus average flying pay. In total, the person in that role earns more than Dh58,000 per month.

How much do Qatar Airways pilots make? ›

Pilot Salaries
Job TitleSalary
Qatar Airways Pilot, First Officer salaries - 5 salaries reportedQAR 22,500/mo
Qatar Airways Airline Pilot (First Officer) salaries - 3 salaries reportedQAR 24,500/mo
Qatar Airways Airline Pilot salaries - 1 salaries reported$132,000/yr
9 more rows

Which is the highest paid job in the world? ›

In this article, you will learn about the top 6 highest-paying jobs in the world. Take a glimpse below.
  • Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
  • General Surgeon.
  • Senior Software Engineer.
  • Investment Banker.
  • Data Scientist.
  • IT Systems Manager.

How many hours do pilots work? ›

Airline pilots fly an average of 75 hours per month and work an additional 150 hours per month performing other duties, such as checking weather conditions and preparing flight plans. Pilots have variable work schedules that may include several days of work followed by some days off.

Which airline is the best to work? ›

1) Southwest Airlines

If you are in the industry, you know that Southwest has a great reputation for truly taking care of their employees. Not only are they one of the top, if not the top, paid in the industry, but they are constantly looking for new ways to show their employees that they are appreciated.

What is the best airline in the world? ›

Qatar Airways was ranked number 1 because of its "cabin innovation, passenger service, and its commitment to continue to operate throughout the COVID pandemic." The world's top 20 best airlines, as outlined by AirlineRatings.com are: Qatar Airways.

Is becoming a Pilot hard? ›

Becoming a commercial airline pilot requires considerable study and training, as well as many hours of flying time. It requires a lot of dedication, commitment and hard work to become a commercial pilot, but can be a rewarding career path for anyone who loves to travel and enjoys a challenge.

How many hours do Emirates pilots work? ›

Roster, Hours & Routes
Emirates Passenger - A380
Average Annual Hours800 - 900
Routes24-hour operation Mix of turnarounds, long haul and ultra long haul Trips are single or multi sector and can be 1-9 days in duration Layover periods are generally 24-48 hours Days off are in Dubai
2 more rows

How many years do you have to study to be a Pilot? ›

Ideally, becoming a pilot should only take 3 to 4 years, the time it takes to get your Bachelor of Science in Professional Flight. Getting an education is also good for a consistency of training, so it's preferred to wait to start your journey until you are in a certified school, like LETU.

How much does it cost to study pilot in Qatar? ›

There are 25 courses available, the cheapest price is QAR 7282.

Do pilots get paid per flight? ›

Pilots don't earn a flat annual salary like some professions. Instead, they're paid an hourly wage for each flight hour flown, along with per diem. Most airlines guarantee a minimum number of hours per month, so that pilots can count on at least a minimum amount of monthly income.

How much do British Airways pilots make? ›

British Airways Salary FAQs

How does the salary as an Airline Pilot at British Airways compare with the base salary range for this job? The average salary for an Airline Pilot is £47,140 per year in London, United Kingdom Area, which is 47% lower than the average British Airways salary of £89,920 per year for this job.

Which job is best job? ›

It is an exciting job for professionals who have an interest in fashion and can offer good earning potential and work-life balance.
  • Information security analyst. ...
  • Veterinarian. ...
  • Corporate controller. ...
  • Finance manager. ...
  • Data scientist. ...
  • Professor. ...
  • Psychiatrist. ...
  • Anaesthesiologist. National average salary: ₹11,74,715 per year.

Which country has highest salary? ›

Here are the nations in the world that pay the most.
...
These are the countries with the Highest Average Salaries, 2022.
RankCountryAverage Monthly Net Salary (US$)
1Switzerland6142.1
2Singapore4350.79
3Australia4218.89
4United States3721.64
101 more rows
15 Aug 2022

What is the highest paid job in the world 2022? ›

Highest Paying Careers
  • Architectural and Engineering Managers.
  • Marketing Managers.
  • Natural Sciences Managers.
  • Petroleum Engineers.
  • Podiatrists.
  • Financial Managers.
  • Sales Managers.
  • Lawyers.
3 days ago

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Twana Towne Ret

Last Updated:

Views: 6587

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (44 voted)

Reviews: 83% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Twana Towne Ret

Birthday: 1994-03-19

Address: Apt. 990 97439 Corwin Motorway, Port Eliseoburgh, NM 99144-2618

Phone: +5958753152963

Job: National Specialist

Hobby: Kayaking, Photography, Skydiving, Embroidery, Leather crafting, Orienteering, Cooking

Introduction: My name is Twana Towne Ret, I am a famous, talented, joyous, perfect, powerful, inquisitive, lovely person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.