The exact amount of money a pilot makes each month depends on a variety of factors, including their experience, the type of aircraft they fly, and the airline or company they work for. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for airline pilots, co-pilots, and flight engineers was $124,030 in May 2020. This means that half of all pilots earned more than this amount, while the other half earned less.
The top 10% of earners made more than $208,000 per year, while the bottom 10% earned less than $69,940. These figures include base pay, flight pay, and other forms of compensation. Pilots who work for major airlines typically earn more than those who work for smaller airlines or regional carriers. Additionally, pilots who fly larger aircraft, such as wide-body jets, typically earn more than those who fly smaller aircraft, such as turboprops.
In addition to their base pay, pilots may also receive a variety of other benefits, such as health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, and a retirement plan. Some airlines also offer stock options and other forms of long-term compensation.
How much do pilots make a month
Salary varies depending on experience, aircraft type, and employer.
- Median annual wage: $124,030
- Top 10% earners: $208,000+
- Bottom 10% earners: $69,940-
- Benefits: health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, retirement plan
- Major airlines pay more than smaller airlines
- Pilots of larger aircraft earn more
- Experience and qualifications affect salary
- Flight hours and overtime can increase earnings
Ultimately, the amount a pilot makes each month is determined by a combination of factors, including their experience, qualifications, the type of aircraft they fly, and the airline or company they work for.
Median annual wage: $124,030
The median annual wage for airline pilots, co-pilots, and flight engineers was $124,030 in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This means that half of all pilots earned more than this amount, while the other half earned less. This figure includes base pay, flight pay, and other forms of compensation.
There are a number of factors that can affect a pilot's salary, including their experience, the type of aircraft they fly, and the airline or company they work for. For example, pilots with more experience typically earn more than those with less experience. Additionally, pilots who fly larger aircraft, such as wide-body jets, typically earn more than those who fly smaller aircraft, such as turboprops.
The airline or company that a pilot works for can also affect their salary. Pilots who work for major airlines typically earn more than those who work for smaller airlines or regional carriers. Additionally, pilots who work for airlines that offer international flights may earn more than those who work for airlines that only offer domestic flights.
It is important to note that the median annual wage for pilots can vary significantly from year to year. This is due to a number of factors, including the overall economy, the demand for pilots, and the financial health of the airlines.
Overall, the median annual wage for pilots is a relatively high salary. However, it is important to remember that this is just an average salary. Some pilots may earn significantly more than this amount, while others may earn less.
Top 10% earners: $208,000+
The top 10% of airline pilots, co-pilots, and flight engineers earned more than $208,000 per year in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This means that these pilots earned more than 90% of all other pilots.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to a pilot earning a salary in the top 10%. These factors include:
- Experience: Pilots with more experience typically earn more than those with less experience. This is because they are more valuable to airlines and are able to command higher salaries.
- Aircraft type: Pilots who fly larger aircraft, such as wide-body jets, typically earn more than those who fly smaller aircraft, such as turboprops. This is because larger aircraft are more complex to fly and require more training and experience.
- Airline or company: Pilots who work for major airlines typically earn more than those who work for smaller airlines or regional carriers. This is because major airlines are able to offer higher salaries due to their larger budgets.
- International flying: Pilots who fly international flights typically earn more than those who only fly domestic flights. This is because international flights are longer and more complex, and they require pilots to have additional training and certifications.
- Overtime and flight hours: Pilots who work overtime or fly more hours per month typically earn more than those who do not. This is because they are paid by the hour, so the more hours they fly, the more money they make.
It is important to note that the top 10% of earners among pilots are a relatively small group. Most pilots earn less than this amount. However, it is possible for pilots to earn a high salary if they have the right experience, qualifications, and work for the right airline or company.
Overall, the top 10% of earners among pilots earn a very high salary. This is due to a combination of factors, including their experience, the type of aircraft they fly, the airline or company they work for, and the amount of overtime and flight hours they work.
Bottom 10% earners: $69,940-
The bottom 10% of airline pilots, co-pilots, and flight engineers earned less than $69,940 per year in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This means that these pilots earned less than 10% of all other pilots.
- Low experience: Pilots with less experience typically earn less than those with more experience. This is because they are less valuable to airlines and are not able to command as high a salary.
- Small aircraft: Pilots who fly smaller aircraft, such as turboprops, typically earn less than those who fly larger aircraft, such as wide-body jets. This is because smaller aircraft are less complex to fly and require less training and experience.
- Regional airlines: Pilots who work for regional airlines typically earn less than those who work for major airlines. This is because regional airlines have smaller budgets and are not able to offer as high salaries.
- Domestic flying: Pilots who only fly domestic flights typically earn less than those who fly international flights. This is because domestic flights are shorter and less complex, and they do not require pilots to have additional training and certifications.
It is important to note that the bottom 10% of earners among pilots are a relatively small group. Most pilots earn more than this amount. However, it is possible for pilots to earn a low salary if they have less experience, fly smaller aircraft, work for a regional airline, or only fly domestic flights.
Benefits: health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, retirement plan
In addition to their base pay, pilots may also receive a variety of other benefits, such as health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, and a retirement plan.
Health insurance: Health insurance is a common benefit that is offered to pilots by most airlines and companies. This insurance can help to cover the costs of medical care, including doctor's visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs.
Dental insurance: Dental insurance is another common benefit that is offered to pilots. This insurance can help to cover the costs of dental care, including cleanings, fillings, and root canals.
Life insurance: Life insurance is a benefit that can provide financial protection for a pilot's family in the event of their death. This insurance can help to cover the costs of funeral expenses, outstanding debts, and other expenses that may arise after a pilot's death.
Retirement plan: A retirement plan is a benefit that can help pilots to save for their retirement. This plan may include a pension, a 401(k) plan, or another type of retirement savings account. Contributions to a retirement plan are typically made on a pre-tax basis, which can help to reduce a pilot's taxable income.
The availability and generosity of these benefits can vary depending on the airline or company that a pilot works for. However, most pilots are able to receive at least some of these benefits as part of their compensation package.
Major airlines pay more than smaller airlines
Major airlines typically pay their pilots more than smaller airlines. This is due to a number of factors, including the following:
- Larger budgets: Major airlines have larger budgets than smaller airlines. This allows them to offer higher salaries and benefits to their pilots.
- More complex operations: Major airlines typically have more complex operations than smaller airlines. This means that their pilots need to have more training and experience, which can lead to higher salaries.
- More international flying: Major airlines typically offer more international flights than smaller airlines. This can lead to higher salaries for pilots, as international flights are typically longer and more complex than domestic flights.
- More competition for pilots: Major airlines typically have more competition for pilots than smaller airlines. This can drive up salaries, as airlines compete to attract and retain the best pilots.
As a result of these factors, pilots who work for major airlines typically earn more than those who work for smaller airlines. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, some regional airlines may offer higher salaries to their pilots in order to attract and retain experienced pilots.
Overall, pilots who work for major airlines can expect to earn higher salaries than those who work for smaller airlines. However, there are a number of factors that can affect a pilot's salary, so it is important to research the salaries offered by different airlines before making a decision about where to work.
Pilots of larger aircraft earn more
Pilots of larger aircraft typically earn more than pilots of smaller aircraft. This is because larger aircraft are more complex to fly and require more training and experience. Additionally, pilots of larger aircraft typically have more responsibility, as they are responsible for the safety of more passengers and crew members.
The following are some of the factors that can affect a pilot's salary based on the size of the aircraft they fly:
- Training: Pilots of larger aircraft typically require more training than pilots of smaller aircraft. This training can be expensive, and airlines often pass on the cost to their pilots in the form of higher salaries.
- Experience: Pilots of larger aircraft typically have more experience than pilots of smaller aircraft. This experience is valuable to airlines, as it means that these pilots are more likely to be able to handle difficult situations safely.
- Responsibility: Pilots of larger aircraft have more responsibility than pilots of smaller aircraft. They are responsible for the safety of more passengers and crew members, and they are also responsible for more expensive equipment.
- Demand: There is typically more demand for pilots of larger aircraft than there is for pilots of smaller aircraft. This is because there are fewer pilots who are qualified to fly larger aircraft.
As a result of these factors, pilots of larger aircraft typically earn more than pilots of smaller aircraft. For example, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for airline pilots who fly wide-body jets was $139,530 in May 2020. This is significantly higher than the median annual wage for airline pilots who fly turboprops, which was $93,580 in May 2020.
Overall, pilots of larger aircraft can expect to earn higher salaries than pilots of smaller aircraft. This is due to a number of factors, including the additional training, experience, responsibility, and demand for pilots of larger aircraft.
Experience and qualifications affect salary
A pilot's experience and qualifications can also have a significant impact on their salary. Pilots with more experience and higher qualifications typically earn more than those with less experience and lower qualifications.
- Experience: Pilots with more experience are typically paid more than those with less experience. This is because they are more valuable to airlines and are able to command higher salaries. Airlines are willing to pay more for experienced pilots because they are more likely to be able to handle difficult situations safely and efficiently.
- Flight hours: Pilots who have more flight hours are typically paid more than those with fewer flight hours. This is because flight hours are a measure of a pilot's experience and proficiency. Airlines typically require pilots to have a certain number of flight hours before they can be promoted to higher-paying positions.
- Qualifications: Pilots with higher qualifications are typically paid more than those with lower qualifications. This is because higher qualifications indicate that a pilot has the knowledge and skills necessary to fly more complex aircraft and operate in more challenging conditions. Some of the most common pilot qualifications include type ratings, instrument ratings, and commercial pilot licenses.
- Certifications: Pilots who have additional certifications are typically paid more than those who do not. This is because certifications demonstrate that a pilot has the training and experience necessary to perform specialized tasks, such as flying in bad weather or operating certain types of aircraft.
Overall, pilots with more experience, flight hours, qualifications, and certifications can expect to earn higher salaries than those with less experience and lower qualifications. This is because these factors make pilots more valuable to airlines and allow them to command higher salaries.
Flight hours and overtime can increase earnings
Pilots who fly more hours per month and work overtime can also increase their earnings. This is because most pilots are paid by the hour, so the more hours they fly, the more money they make.
- Flight hours: Pilots who fly more hours per month typically earn more than those who fly fewer hours. This is because they are paid by the hour, so the more hours they fly, the more money they make. Airlines typically schedule pilots for a certain number of flight hours per month, but pilots can often pick up additional hours if they are available.
- Overtime: Pilots who work overtime can also increase their earnings. Overtime is typically paid at a higher rate than regular pay, so pilots can earn more money by working extra hours. Airlines typically offer overtime opportunities to pilots who are willing to work them.
- On-call pay: Some pilots are also paid for being on-call. This means that they are required to be available to work at short notice. On-call pay is typically paid at a lower rate than regular pay, but it can still add up to a significant amount of money over time.
- Per diem: Pilots who are required to travel for work are often paid a per diem, which is a daily allowance for meals and other expenses. Per diem rates vary depending on the location and the airline, but they can add up to a significant amount of money over time.
Overall, pilots who fly more hours, work overtime, and are willing to travel can increase their earnings significantly. This is because airlines are willing to pay more for pilots who are willing to work more hours and take on additional responsibilities.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about how much pilots make per month:
Question 1: What is the average monthly salary for a pilot?
Answer 1: The average monthly salary for a pilot in the United States is $10,360, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, salaries can vary significantly depending on experience, qualifications, and the airline or company that a pilot works for.
Question 2: How much do pilots make per month with 5 years of experience?
Answer 2: Pilots with 5 years of experience typically earn more than those with less experience. According to Indeed, the average monthly salary for a pilot with 5 years of experience is $11,000. However, this can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.
Question 3: How much do pilots make per month with 10 years of experience?
Answer 3: Pilots with 10 years of experience typically earn more than those with less experience. According to Glassdoor, the average monthly salary for a pilot with 10 years of experience is $12,000. However, this can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.
Question 4: How much do pilots make per month flying for a major airline?
Answer 4: Pilots who fly for major airlines typically earn more than those who fly for smaller airlines. According to Payscale, the average monthly salary for a pilot flying for a major airline is $13,000. However, this can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.
Question 5: How much do pilots make per month flying for a regional airline?
Answer 5: Pilots who fly for regional airlines typically earn less than those who fly for major airlines. According to Salary.com, the average monthly salary for a pilot flying for a regional airline is $9,000. However, this can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.
Question 6: How much do pilots make per month flying private jets?
Answer 6: Pilots who fly private jets typically earn more than those who fly commercial airlines. According to Private Jet Pilot Jobs, the average monthly salary for a pilot flying a private jet is $15,000. However, this can vary significantly depending on the factors mentioned above.
Question 7: Can pilots make more money by flying overtime?
Answer 7: Yes, pilots can make more money by flying overtime. Overtime is typically paid at a higher rate than regular pay, so pilots can earn more money by working extra hours. However, the availability of overtime can vary depending on the airline or company that a pilot works for.
Question 8: What are the highest-paying pilot jobs?
Answer 8: The highest-paying pilot jobs are typically those that require specialized skills or experience. For example, pilots who fly for cargo airlines, corporate jets, or the military typically earn more than those who fly for commercial airlines. Additionally, pilots who have advanced certifications, such as a type rating or an instrument rating, can also earn more money.
Question 9: What are the lowest-paying pilot jobs?
Answer 9: The lowest-paying pilot jobs are typically those that require less experience and qualifications. For example, pilots who fly for small charter companies or flight schools typically earn less than those who fly for major airlines. Additionally, pilots who have only a private pilot license typically earn less than those who have a commercial pilot license.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
These are just some of the most frequently asked questions about how much pilots make per month. The actual salary that a pilot earns can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including their experience, qualifications, the airline or company that they work for, and the type of aircraft that they fly.
If you are interested in becoming a pilot, there are a number of things you can do to increase your earning potential. These include getting more experience, obtaining higher qualifications, and working for a major airline or company.
Tips
Here are four tips for pilots to increase their monthly earnings:
Tip 1: Get more experience.
One of the best ways to increase your salary as a pilot is to get more experience. As you gain more experience, you will become more valuable to airlines and companies, and you will be able to command a higher salary. You can gain experience by flying for a flight school, a small charter company, or a regional airline. Once you have a few years of experience, you can apply for jobs at major airlines, which typically pay higher salaries.
Tip 2: Get higher qualifications.
Another way to increase your salary as a pilot is to get higher qualifications. This could include getting a type rating for a specific type of aircraft, an instrument rating, or a commercial pilot license. Higher qualifications will make you more marketable to airlines and companies, and you will be able to command a higher salary.
Tip 3: Work for a major airline or company.
Major airlines and companies typically pay their pilots more than smaller airlines and companies. This is because major airlines and companies have larger budgets and are able to offer higher salaries. If you are looking to increase your salary as a pilot, try to get a job at a major airline or company.
Tip 4: Fly overtime and pick up extra hours.
Pilots who are willing to fly overtime and pick up extra hours can also increase their monthly earnings. Overtime is typically paid at a higher rate than regular pay, so pilots can earn more money by working extra hours. Additionally, pilots who are willing to fly on holidays and weekends can also earn more money.
Closing Paragraph for Tips:
By following these tips, pilots can increase their monthly earnings and improve their overall financial situation. However, it is important to remember that the amount of money that a pilot makes can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including their experience, qualifications, the airline or company that they work for, and the type of aircraft that they fly.
Ultimately, the best way to increase your salary as a pilot is to work hard, get more experience, and get higher qualifications. By doing so, you will become more valuable to airlines and companies, and you will be able to command a higher salary.
Conclusion
In summary, the amount of money that a pilot makes per month can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including their experience, qualifications, the airline or company that they work for, and the type of aircraft that they fly. However, by following the tips outlined in this article, pilots can increase their monthly earnings and improve their overall financial situation.
The most important thing for pilots to remember is that the key to increasing their salary is to become more valuable to airlines and companies. This can be done by getting more experience, obtaining higher qualifications, and working for a major airline or company. Pilots who are willing to do these things will be in high demand and will be able to command higher salaries.
Overall, the job outlook for pilots is expected to be good over the next few years. As the economy continues to grow, there will be a need for more pilots to fly commercial airliners, private jets, and cargo planes. This means that there will be plenty of opportunities for pilots to find good-paying jobs.
If you are interested in becoming a pilot, there are a number of things you can do to prepare yourself for this career. First, you will need to get a private pilot license. Once you have a private pilot license, you can start building your flight hours. You can do this by flying for a flight school, a small charter company, or a regional airline. Once you have enough flight hours, you can apply for a commercial pilot license. With a commercial pilot license, you will be able to fly for major airlines and companies.
Becoming a pilot is a challenging but rewarding career. Pilots have the opportunity to travel the world, meet new people, and make a good living. If you are looking for a career that is both exciting and rewarding, then becoming a pilot may be the right choice for you.