The aviation industry offers some of the most exciting and rewarding careers, but one of the most frequently asked questions by aspiring and experienced pilots alike is: How much can I earn as a pilot? Whether you’re a First Officer or a seasoned Captain, the aviation sector offers a variety of opportunities that can lead to lucrative salaries.
BizJetJobs is committed to providing pilots with the tools and insights they need to understand salary expectations in today’s dynamic aviation job market. Our Pilot Salary Survey offers an in-depth look at what top pilots are earning across the U.S., including salary ranges by region, aircraft type, experience level, and the type of aviation operation they are involved in.
In this article, we’ll break down the key factors that influence pilot salaries and give you a comprehensive overview of the current salary trends for corporate, charter, and commercial pilots.
Key Factors Affecting Pilot Salaries
Understanding pilot salary trends requires taking into account several key factors that influence earnings. Below are some of the most significant determinants of what you can expect to earn as a pilot:
1. Type of Aviation Operation
Pilot salaries vary greatly depending on the type of aviation in which they are involved. Corporate aviation, charter aviation, and commercial aviation each have different pay structures and expectations.
- Corporate Pilots: Corporate pilots who fly for private companies or high-net-worth individuals often enjoy higher salaries due to the nature of the aircraft and the flexibility required in their work schedules. They can expect salaries ranging from $50,000 to $250,000+, depending on experience and aircraft type.
- Charter Pilots: Charter pilots operate on-demand flights and can earn competitive salaries, generally ranging from $60,000 to $150,000, with the potential for bonuses or additional compensation based on flight hours and demand.
- Commercial Airline Pilots: Airline pilots, especially those flying for major carriers, can earn from $60,000 to $250,000+ depending on seniority, route assignments, and company size. However, newcomers in the industry typically earn lower starting salaries until they climb the ranks to Captain.
2. Aircraft Type
The size and complexity of the aircraft you’re flying also significantly affect your earnings. Pilots flying large, long-range jets like Gulfstream, Bombardier Globals, or Boeing Business Jets tend to earn higher salaries than those flying smaller aircraft. Pilots with type ratings on specific aircraft, especially high-demand models, can command higher pay due to the specialized training and experience required.
3. Experience and Rank
Experience plays a major role in determining pilot salaries. First Officers (SIC) typically earn less than Captains (PIC), but this pay gap narrows as First Officers gain more hours and experience. Senior pilots with a vast number of flying hours and multiple type ratings are highly sought after and can command top-tier salaries.
4. Geographic Location
Pilot salaries are also influenced by location. Major aviation hubs like New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Dallas often offer higher pay rates due to the high demand for pilots in these regions. Additionally, pilots flying internationally or to remote locations may receive additional compensation for the added complexities of those assignments.
5. Flight Hours and Schedule
Pilots who can log more flight hours tend to earn higher salaries. Corporate and charter pilots, in particular, can increase their earnings by taking on more flexible, higher-demand schedules. Pilots willing to work during holidays, weekends, and nights are often compensated with premium pay or bonuses.
Pilot Salary Breakdown by Category
Based on the BizJetJobs Pilot Salary Survey, here is a breakdown of pilot salaries across various aviation sectors in the U.S. for 2025:
1. Corporate Pilot Salaries
Corporate pilots are in high demand due to the increasing reliance on private jet travel. The salaries for corporate pilots can vary depending on the type of aircraft and their level of experience.
- First Officers: Corporate First Officers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 Those flying smaller aircraft like Cessna Citations or Embraer Phenom 100 will usually be at the lower end of this range, while those flying larger aircraft such as Gulfstream G550 or Bombardier Challenger 350 will earn more.
- Captains: Corporate Captains, depending on the aircraft type and their years of experience, can earn anywhere from $100,000 to $250,000+ Captains flying for large corporations or high-net-worth clients often earn premium salaries, especially for international flights or long-haul missions.
2. Charter Pilot Salaries
Charter aviation offers an exciting and dynamic career path for pilots, especially those who enjoy varied flight assignments. Salaries for charter pilots are competitive, but they can also vary based on the flight operator, aircraft type, and geographic location.
- First Officers: Charter First Officers generally make between $60,000 and $90,000 Pilots flying for large fractional ownership companies like NetJets or FlexJet can earn on the higher end of this scale due to the scale of operations and the quality of aircraft.
- Captains: Charter Captains can earn between $100,000 and $150,000, with potential bonuses or additional pay for international assignments or flexible schedules. Captains flying large aircraft like the Bombardier Global Express or Gulfstream G650 can earn top-tier salaries.
3. Commercial Airline Pilot Salaries
Commercial airline pilots, especially those working for major carriers, often have a clear career progression, starting as First Officers and moving into Captain roles over time.
- First Officers: Starting salaries for airline First Officers are generally between $50,000 and $75,000 The pay scale increases significantly as they gain experience and flight hours.
- Captains: Airline Captains, particularly those with several years of experience, can earn anywhere from $100,000 to $250,000+. Pilots flying international routes or operating for larger airlines with more seniority will earn higher pay.
Salary Trends for 2025 and Beyond
The aviation industry continues to evolve, with demand for skilled pilots rising due to the growth of corporate travel, charter services, and expanding commercial air travel. Salaries are expected to increase, especially for experienced pilots who possess multiple-type ratings and are willing to fly more complex aircraft.
The BizJetJobs Pilot Salary Survey shows that corporate pilots, particularly those flying large jets or working for high-demand clients, are among the highest-paid in the industry. As the demand for private and business aviation grows, opportunities for higher-paying roles are on the rise.
How BizJetJobs Can Help You Maximize Your Earning Potential
BizJetJobs not only provides an up-to-date Pilot Salary Survey but also helps pilots find job opportunities that align with their experience and salary expectations. With real-time job alerts, access to exclusive job listings, and resume optimization tools, BizJetJobs is a powerful platform for pilots looking to advance their careers and increase their earning potential.
Explore the latest salary data and available opportunities today, and take the next step toward a rewarding and financially successful aviation career.