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How much can I expect to earn as a pilot?
- Categories Career prospects
As a commercial airline pilot, you can expect to receive a salary above the average. However, your actual salary will differ depending on whether you fly for a major or regional airline.
Newly qualified pilots typically start out at a regional airline. Regional airline pilots are typically paid less than those at major airlines.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2020 Report, the percentile wage estimates for airline pilots, First Officers, and Flight Engineers are as follows:
Percentile |
10% |
25% |
50% (median) |
Annual wage |
$80,920 |
$106,530 |
$160,970 |