Becoming a commercial pilot is a dream for many aviation enthusiasts. It offers the excitement of flying and the allure of a lucrative career.

This post will examine the steps involved in becoming a commercial pilot, wage expectations at various career levels, and factors that affect pay. We’ll also address some frequently asked questions about pilot salaries.

How to Become a Commercial Pilot

The journey to becoming a commercial pilot is both challenging and rewarding. Here are the essential steps:

1. Obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL)

The first step is to earn a Private Pilot License, which requires a minimum of 40 flight hours, including 20 hours of flight training with an instructor and 10 hours of solo flight. Eventually, a written exam and flight test are required to obtain the license.

2. Gain Flight Experience

After obtaining a PPL, aspiring commercial pilots need to accumulate flight hours. Most pilots gain experience by flying places alongside a friend.

3. Obtain an Instrument Rating (IR)

An Instrument Rating allows pilots to fly in various weather conditions and is essential for commercial pilots. This involves additional training and passing a written exam and a practical test.

4. Obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

To get a Commercial Pilot License, pilots must log at least 250 flight hours. They must pass another written exam and a flight test demonstrating their ability to perform commercial pilot duties.

5. Build More Experience

Many commercial pilots start their careers with flight instructing, banner towing, or aerial photography.

6. Obtain an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)

The ATPL is the highest level of aircraft pilot certification and is required for captains of commercial airliners. It requires a minimum of 1,500 flight hours and passing rigorous written and practical exams.

Airline Pilot Salary

The salary of a commercial pilot can vary widely based on factors such as the type of aircraft, the airline, and the pilot’s experience level. Here’s an overview:

1. Regional Airlines

Entry-level pilots often start with regional airlines, where salaries are generally lower than those at major airlines. As of 2024, first officers (co-pilots) at regional airlines can expect to earn at least 90,000 per year. Captains at regional airlines can earn between $150,000 to $200,000 annually.

2. Major Airlines

Salaries increase significantly at flagship airlines. Pilots typically start at rates comparable to the regionals but after only a few years make $200,000 to $400,000.

3. Cargo Airlines

Cargo airlines often offer competitive salaries, sometimes higher than passenger airlines.

4. Charter and Corporate Pilots

Pilots who fly private charters or corporate jets also have varying salaries. Depending on the company and flight hours, these can range from $50,000 to $500,000 annually.

What is the Highest Paid Pilot?

The highest-paid pilots are typically those flying for major international airlines or operating corporate jets for wealthy clients. Here’s an insight into the top earnings:

1. Major Airline Captains

Captains flying international routes for major airlines can earn between $200,000 and $300,000 annually. Some captains on long-haul flights can even surpass the $300,000 mark, especially with bonuses and other compensations. They also work infrequently, often only 2 or 3 trips per month. This commercial pilot salary is one of the highest.

2. Corporate Jet Pilots

Pilots flying private corporate jets for high-net-worth individuals or corporations can earn salaries ranging from $150,000 to $250,000 annually. Sometimes, these pilots may receive additional benefits such as housing allowances and bonuses.

3. Cargo Pilots

Pilots working for major cargo airlines like FedEx or UPS can earn substantial salaries, with experienced captains making between $200,000 and $250,000 annually.

FAQs

1. Do Commercial Pilots Get Paid Well?

Yes, commercial pilots are generally well-compensated. While entry-level salaries might be modest, pilots’ earnings increase significantly with experience, especially those working with major airlines or flying international routes.

2. How Much Does a 5-Year Pilot Make?

An airline pilot with five years of experience at a regional airline will earn upwards of $140,000 annually, depending on the airline, the aircraft type, and the pilot’s role (first officer or captain).

3. How Much Do Pilots Get Paid After 10 Years?

After ten years, pilots often earn salaries ranging from $150,000 to $300,000 annually. Those flying for major airlines or international routes may gain even more, especially if they have reached the rank of captain.

4. What is a Commercial Pilot’s Salary Per Month?

The monthly salary of a commercial pilot can vary, but on average:

• Entry-level pilots: $2,500 to $4,000 per month
• Mid-level pilots: $5,000 to $10,000 per month
• Senior pilots: $10,000 to $25,000 per month

In Summary

Becoming a commercial pilot requires dedication and significant investment in training, but the financial rewards and the thrill of flying make it a highly appealing career for many. Whether starting at a regional airline or aiming for top-paying jobs with major carriers, the journey of a commercial pilot is marked by steady growth in both skills and earnings.