How Much Do Airline Pilots Make in 2026?
A Pilot's Hourly Rate is Based on Seniority
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Airline pilots are paid according to an hourly system. Although their annual earnings are often presented as a salary, commercial pilots generally earn an hourly wage based on their flight hours, with a guaranteed minimum number of hours each month. Depending on airline, seniority, equipment, and role, airline pilots can make between $90 per hour to over $450 per hour.
| Airline Pilot Hour Rates | $90 — $450 Per Hour |
|---|
Due to the constraints placed on pilots by the FAA, most fly about 75 hours per month. In addition to flight time, pilots are also paid per diem, which serves to reimburse pilots for the food and beverage expenses that they incur on the road. All together, senior airline pilots can earn over $450,000 a year.
| Regional Airline Pilot Salary | $85,000 — $217,530 |
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| Major Airline Pilot Salary | $98,680 — $450,000 |
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