Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor Salary 2025: $58,170 Median, 5.2% Job Growth
Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors earn a median salary of $58,170 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average mean wage is $65,010, or about $28 per hour. Most supervisors in this role earn between $41,690 (10th percentile) and $92,160 (90th percentile). With 9,760 jobs nationwide and faster-than-average growth projected, this is a stable middle-skill occupation in the aviation industry.
How much Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors earn
The median annual wage for Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors is $58,170. Half of all workers earn less than this amount; half earn more. The bottom 10% earn $41,690 or less, while the top 10% bring home $92,160 or more. The mean (average) wage is $65,010, which works out to roughly $31.25 per hour.
Pay varies significantly by employer type. Supervisors working for scheduled air transportation tend to earn higher wages, while those at regional airports or smaller cargo handlers may see lower pay. Experience and certifications also push salaries toward the top of the range.
Pay by state
Location matters. The highest-paying state for Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors is Georgia, with an average annual wage of $81,380. Ohio ($79,650), Louisiana ($79,460), Colorado ($79,260), and Connecticut ($78,770) round out the top five. At the other end, the lowest-paying states are New Hampshire ($52,360), Michigan ($47,850), and Oklahoma ($41,600).
Why Georgia? Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the world's busiest, concentrates cargo operations and drives up wages. Ohio benefits from major hubs like Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International, a key Amazon Air hub. Louisiana's strong industrial port activity also boosts cargo supervisor pay.
How to become Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor
This is typically a promotion from within. Most supervisors start as cargo handlers or ramp agents and move up after a few years of experience. The standard path looks like this:
- Get a high school diploma or equivalent (required). Some employers prefer an associate degree in logistics or aviation management.
- Work 1–3 years as an aircraft cargo handler or ramp agent. You'll need to learn safety procedures, loading weight-and-balance basics, and use of ground support equipment.
- Obtain an airport security badge (SIDA) and pass a background check. This is mandatory for unescorted access to secure areas.
- Earn relevant certifications: IATA's Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) certification is common. Some supervisors hold a forklift or hazardous materials endorsement.
- Apply for supervisor openings internally or at other airlines/ground handlers. Supervisory experience in warehousing or logistics helps.
Job outlook
Employment of Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors is projected to grow 5.2% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 1,100 openings per year over the decade. Most openings will come from workers retiring or leaving the occupation.
Growth is tied to the overall increase in air freight volume, driven by e-commerce and global trade. Pressure to turn around planes quickly will keep demand for skilled supervisors steady.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for an Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor?
Entry-level supervisors typically start near the 10th percentile, around $41,690 per year. Starting pay depends on location and employer; major hub airports often start higher.
Do Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors need a degree?
No, a high school diploma is the minimum requirement. However, an associate or bachelor's degree in logistics, aviation management, or a related field can speed up promotion.
What is the job growth rate for Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors?
The BLS projects 5.2% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average. About 1,100 job openings are expected each year.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors data.