Airline Pilot Salary (2025)
Airline pilots operate commercial aircraft for passenger and cargo transport.
The median Airline Pilot salary is $171,760 per year ($83/hour). Entry-level Airline Pilots earn around $80,000 while experienced Airline Pilots earn $280,000 or more annually.
Salary Range
Median: $171,760 — positioned between entry and senior
Top Paying States for Airline Pilots
| State | Est. Annual Salary | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $244,000 | +42% |
| California | $237,000 | +38% |
| New York | $220,000 | +28% |
| Alaska | $215,000 | +25% |
| Massachusetts | $215,000 | +25% |
| New Jersey | $206,000 | +20% |
| Connecticut | $203,000 | +18% |
| Washington | $198,000 | +15% |
Estimates based on cost-of-living index adjustments. Actual salaries vary by employer and experience.
How to Become a Airline Pilot
Most Airline Pilot positions require: Bachelor's Degree + ATP certificate. Salaries typically increase significantly with experience and specialization.
Airline Pilot Salary by State
Related Careers in Aviation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Airline Pilot salary?
The median Airline Pilot salary is $171,760 per year, which works out to approximately $83/hour based on a 40-hour work week.
How much does an entry-level Airline Pilot make?
Entry-level Airline Pilots typically earn around $80,000 per year. Salaries grow significantly with experience and specialization.
What is a senior Airline Pilot's salary?
Experienced Airline Pilots can earn up to $280,000 or more annually depending on location, employer, and specialization.
What education is required to become a Airline Pilot?
Most Airline Pilot positions require: Bachelor's Degree + ATP certificate.