Commercial Airline Pilot Salary How Much Airline Pilots Make in 2026
Airlines are Hiring in 2026! Catch up on the latest industry news for airline pilot hiring announcements »
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that commercial pilots typically earn around $122,670 per year, while airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers have a median annual wage of $226,600. These amounts can vary depending on airline type, aircraft, experience, and job title.
Annual Pilot Salary Range
Salaries have continued to rise over recent years, reflecting strong demand for qualified pilots. Pay can range widely: a first-year regional first officer may earn between $70,000-$90,000, while a senior widebody captain at a major airline or cargo carrier can earn $350,000 or more. Compensation is often calculated using hourly pay multiplied by credit hours rather than a flat salary, so earnings can fluctuate based on flight hours, routes flown, and seniority.
Beyond base pay, pilots generally receive comprehensive benefits, including health, life, and disability insurance, as well as retirement plans that often exceed those available in other professions.
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 $122,670 per year. The median annual wage for airline pilots, copilots and flight engineers is $226,600. 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.
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.
Annual Earnings for Regional and Major Airline Pilots
Below is a breakdown of common salary ranges for different types of pilots in the U.S., from regional airlines to major carriers. Use these ranges to get a sense of what you could earn at various career stages.
| Airline Type | Annual Salary Range | |
|---|---|---|
|
Regional Airline Pilot
Entry → Mid-Level Airlines
|
$85,000 — $217,530 |
First-Year Pay »
What is a Regional Airline? |
|
Major Airline Pilot
Legacy & Major Carriers
|
$98,680 — $450,000 |
Major Airline Pay »
Hourly Pilot Pay » |
Grab a FREE Pilot Career Guide »
| Regional Airline Pilot Salary | $85,000 — $217,530 |
|---|
| Major Airline Pilot Salary | $98,680 — $450,000 |
|---|
See Your Projected Career Earnings
Get your FREE personalized airline pilot training and career path, plus discover:
- Projected Earnings
- Recommended Program
- Personalized Timeline
- Eligibility Checker
- Repayment Calculator
- Next Steps
Thank you! We just sent you a text with a link to your personalized airline pilot training and career path.
Help us customize your training and career path by answering just a few more questions.
Thank you! We've updated your personalized training and career path with the information you provided. View your Personalized Training and Career Path »
Want More Pilot Training & Career Info?
Get helpful emails with insights on what to expect, how to prepare, and what’s next on your path to the airlines
All set! We'll periodically send you information on ATP's programs, the career, and how you can become an airline pilot.
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.
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.
