5 answers
Emily
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
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What is the starting salary of a commercial pilot?
I am a sophomore in highschool and would like to know if this is going to be my lifetime career!
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5 answers
Ezra Jackson
Security
81
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Ezra’s Answer
Hello,
Most commercial pilots start out at about $100,000 a year.
Most commercial pilots start out at about $100,000 a year.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Emily,
Understanding the Beginning Pay for Commercial Pilots
The initial pay for a commercial pilot can fluctuate based on different factors such as the airline they work for, their experience level, their geographical location, and the specific duties they carry out. Generally, a commercial pilot in the United States can expect to earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually at the start of their career. This amount can rise considerably with the accumulation of experience and additional qualifications.
Commercial pilots employed by major airlines usually have a higher income than those working for regional or charter airlines. Other factors like the pilot's rank (whether they are a captain or first officer), the number of flight hours they've logged, and the type of aircraft they fly can also affect their earnings.
It's crucial to remember that as a high school sophomore considering a career as a commercial pilot, there are several routes you can take to reach this goal. Earning a degree in aviation or aeronautical science from a respected institution, securing a commercial pilot's license (CPL), gaining flight experience through flight training programs, and accumulating your flight hours are key steps in becoming a commercial pilot.
Moreover, it's recommended to stay updated on the latest trends in the aviation industry, technological advancements, and any changes in regulations that could impact the profession. Networking with seasoned pilots and professionals in the industry can give you valuable insights into the career trajectory of a commercial pilot.
In the end, choosing to become a commercial pilot can be a satisfying and rewarding career path for those who are passionate about aviation and flying. It presents opportunities for career growth, travel, and the experience of working in a dynamic and demanding environment.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) - The FAA is the main regulatory authority that supervises civil aviation in the United States. They provide details on licensing requirements, regulations, and industry standards for commercial pilots.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - The BLS provides data on job outlooks and wage statistics for various professions, including commercial pilots. This source offers trustworthy information on salary trends and job opportunities in the aviation industry.
Air Line Pilots Association International (ALPA) - ALPA is a prominent labor union that represents pilots in North America. They provide insights into industry trends, collective bargaining agreements, and career development resources for aspiring commercial pilots.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine.
Understanding the Beginning Pay for Commercial Pilots
The initial pay for a commercial pilot can fluctuate based on different factors such as the airline they work for, their experience level, their geographical location, and the specific duties they carry out. Generally, a commercial pilot in the United States can expect to earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually at the start of their career. This amount can rise considerably with the accumulation of experience and additional qualifications.
Commercial pilots employed by major airlines usually have a higher income than those working for regional or charter airlines. Other factors like the pilot's rank (whether they are a captain or first officer), the number of flight hours they've logged, and the type of aircraft they fly can also affect their earnings.
It's crucial to remember that as a high school sophomore considering a career as a commercial pilot, there are several routes you can take to reach this goal. Earning a degree in aviation or aeronautical science from a respected institution, securing a commercial pilot's license (CPL), gaining flight experience through flight training programs, and accumulating your flight hours are key steps in becoming a commercial pilot.
Moreover, it's recommended to stay updated on the latest trends in the aviation industry, technological advancements, and any changes in regulations that could impact the profession. Networking with seasoned pilots and professionals in the industry can give you valuable insights into the career trajectory of a commercial pilot.
In the end, choosing to become a commercial pilot can be a satisfying and rewarding career path for those who are passionate about aviation and flying. It presents opportunities for career growth, travel, and the experience of working in a dynamic and demanding environment.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) - The FAA is the main regulatory authority that supervises civil aviation in the United States. They provide details on licensing requirements, regulations, and industry standards for commercial pilots.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - The BLS provides data on job outlooks and wage statistics for various professions, including commercial pilots. This source offers trustworthy information on salary trends and job opportunities in the aviation industry.
Air Line Pilots Association International (ALPA) - ALPA is a prominent labor union that represents pilots in North America. They provide insights into industry trends, collective bargaining agreements, and career development resources for aspiring commercial pilots.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine.
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
751
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the starting salary for a commercial pilot is:
$50,600 dollars per year
$50,600 dollars per year
Kimberly Krebs
Corporate Security Manager
80
Answers
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
It depends on several things...where you work, who you work for, your experience, your education. All of these factor into how much you will get paid. Also, what flights you pilot, nationwide or international. I think it is pretty safe to say though, that this would be a well paying job and something you would dedicate your life to as a career. A lot of commercial pilots started their careers in the military as pilots, something to think about.
Ky Bantol
Financial Analyst
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Ky’s Answer
This would definitely depend on a lot of different factors, especially around tenure, airline, and location. I would search on different job websites like Glassdoor or Indeed and search up Commercial Pilot by location! I think on average (for the US at least), a commercial pilot earns around $99k (https://l3harrisairlineacademy.com/en-us/about-us/blog/how-much-does-a-pilot-earn-in-the-u-s/#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20Bureau%20of,(last%20updated%20October%202022).