Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers Salary Guide 2025: Median $232,140
The median annual salary for airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers hit $232,140 in 2025, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The typical range spans from $106,710 (10th percentile) to $463,830 (90th percentile), with the mean wage at $288,650—about $112 per hour. That makes this one of the highest-paid occupations in the U.S., but the path to the cockpit is long and expensive.
How much Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers earn
The BLS reports total employment of 103,560 pilots in these roles as of May 2024. Most work for scheduled air transportation, where pay skews higher. The median—half earn more, half less—is $232,140. The lowest-earning 10% make under $106,710, while top earners pull in $463,830 or more.
Pay varies hugely by airline, seniority, and aircraft type. Major carriers pay six figures early, but regional airlines start lower. Flight engineers, a shrinking role on older aircraft, generally make less than captains.
- Median annual wage: $232,140
- Mean annual wage: $288,650 ($112/hr)
- 10th percentile: $106,710
- 90th percentile: $463,830
Pay by state
Location matters. Georgia tops the list at $618,090 mean annual wage—nearly double the national average—driven by major airline hubs and cargo operations. Idaho ($507,640), Michigan ($428,570), California ($353,900), and Kentucky ($350,950) also pay well above median.
At the other end, Louisiana ($120,740), New Hampshire ($99,280), and Missouri ($97,680) report the lowest mean wages. These states tend to have fewer long-haul or major airline bases, with more regional flying or cargo roles.
- Highest-paying: Georgia $618,090, Idaho $507,640, Michigan $428,570, California $353,900, Kentucky $350,950
- Lowest-paying: Louisiana $120,740, New Hampshire $99,280, Missouri $97,680
How to become an Airline Pilot, Copilot, or Flight Engineer
The standard path: earn a commercial pilot's license (requires at least 250 flight hours), then an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate (1,500 hours minimum). Most pilots get their start through flight school (Part 141 or Part 61), a college aviation program, or the military. Flight engineers typically hold a Flight Engineer Certificate based on aircraft type.
Airline hiring is cyclical. Class 1 medical certificate required, plus passing background checks. The quickest route—accelerated schools—costs $60,000–$100,000. Many pilots build hours as flight instructors or banner towers before landing a regional airline job.
- Earn commercial pilot license (250 hrs)
- Gain 1,500 hours for ATP certificate
- Pass FAA Class 1 medical exam
- Apply at regional carriers first, then majors
Job outlook
The BLS projects 3.9% employment growth from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 11,700 openings per year, mostly from retirements and pilots moving to larger aircraft. The long-term outlook is solid, but it's vulnerable to economic downturns that reduce air travel demand.
Mandatory retirement at age 65 creates steady turnover. Boeing forecasts need for over 100,000 new pilots in North America by 2043, but regulatory hurdles and training costs keep supply tight.
- Projected growth 2024–2034: 3.9%
- ~11,700 annual openings
- Age-65 retirement fuels demand
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for airline pilots in 2025?
The median is $232,140, meaning half earn more and half less. The mean is $288,650.
Which state pays airline pilots the most?
Georgia, with a mean wage of $618,090. Idaho, Michigan, California, and Kentucky also top the list.
How long does it take to become an airline pilot?
Typically 2–4 years after starting flight training, depending on the path. You need 1,500 flight hours for the ATP certificate required by airlines.
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 Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers data.