How Much Does An American Airlines Pilot Make?

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Have you ever wondered how much an American Airlines pilot earns? It’s a common question, given the prestige and responsibility that comes with the job. Pilots are responsible for the safety of hundreds of passengers every day, and their salaries reflect that level of expertise.

American Airlines is one of the largest and most well-known airlines in the world, with a fleet of over 950 aircraft and more than 130,000 employees. For pilots working at American Airlines, the salaries are quite competitive. However, there are several factors that can impact a pilot’s earnings, including seniority, experience, and the type of aircraft they fly. Let’s take a closer look at what American Airlines pilots can expect to earn.

How Much Does an American Airlines Pilot Make?

How Much Does an American Airlines Pilot Make?

If you’re considering a career as a pilot, you’re probably wondering how much money you can expect to earn. American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, and many aspiring pilots dream of flying for this iconic carrier. So, how much does an American Airlines pilot make? Let’s take a closer look.

Starting Salaries

For most pilots, the journey to the cockpit of an American Airlines plane starts in the regional airline industry. Regional airlines are feeder carriers that fly smaller planes on shorter routes, and they often have agreements with major airlines like American to provide a pool of pilots for the larger planes.

The starting salary for a regional airline pilot is typically around $50,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This figure can vary depending on a pilot’s experience, the size of the airline, and the region of the country. However, it’s important to note that regional airline pilots often work long hours and have less predictable schedules than their counterparts at major airlines.

Major Airline Salaries

Once a pilot has gained enough experience and flight hours, they may be eligible to apply for a job at a major airline like American. According to Glassdoor.com, the average salary for an American Airlines pilot is around $204,000 per year. This figure includes base salary, bonuses, and profit-sharing contributions.

It’s important to note that salaries can vary widely depending on a pilot’s rank and seniority. For example, a first officer (co-pilot) at American Airlines may earn around $125,000 per year, while a captain could earn upwards of $350,000 per year.

Benefits

In addition to their salaries, American Airlines pilots enjoy a variety of benefits. These include health insurance, retirement plans, and travel privileges for themselves and their families. Pilots also receive paid time off and sick leave, as well as access to training and development programs.

Another significant benefit of working as an American Airlines pilot is job security. Unlike many other industries, the airline industry is highly regulated and requires extensive training and certification. This means that once a pilot has secured a job at a major airline, they are likely to have a stable career for many years to come.

Vs Other Airlines

So, how does American Airlines’ pilot salary compare to other major airlines? According to data from the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), pilots at Delta Airlines earn an average of $240,000 per year, while United Airlines pilots earn around $250,000 per year. However, it’s important to note that these figures can vary depending on a pilot’s seniority and rank.

One factor to consider when comparing airline pilot salaries is the cost of living in different regions of the country. For example, pilots based in New York City or other high-cost areas may earn more than their counterparts in smaller cities or rural areas.

Conclusion

In conclusion, American Airlines pilots can earn a very good salary, particularly once they have gained enough experience to work for the major airline directly. While starting salaries in the regional airline industry may be lower, pilots who are committed to their careers can work their way up the ranks and enjoy a rewarding and stable job with excellent benefits.

If you’re interested in becoming an American Airlines pilot, it’s important to do your research and gain as much experience and training as possible. With hard work and dedication, you could be flying for one of the world’s most respected airlines in no time.

**H2 Heading: Frequently Asked Questions**

**Question 1: What factors affect the salary of an American Airlines pilot?**

There are several factors that can affect the salary of an American Airlines pilot. These include the pilot’s level of experience, the type of aircraft they fly, and their seniority within the company. Additionally, pilots who work longer hours or take on additional responsibilities may be eligible for bonuses or other forms of compensation.

It’s also worth noting that the aviation industry as a whole can be subject to fluctuations in demand and economic conditions. This can impact the salaries of pilots and other aviation professionals.

**Question 2: How does the salary of an American Airlines pilot compare to other airlines?**

The salary of an American Airlines pilot is generally competitive with other major US airlines. However, there can be variations depending on the airline, the pilot’s level of experience, and other factors.

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers was $147,220 as of May 2020. However, this figure can vary widely depending on the specific airline and the pilot’s experience level.

**Question 3: What is the starting salary for an American Airlines pilot?**

The starting salary for an American Airlines pilot can vary depending on the pilot’s level of experience and the type of aircraft they will be flying. However, according to Glassdoor, the average starting salary for an American Airlines pilot is around $70,000 per year.

It’s worth noting that this figure can increase significantly as the pilot gains more experience and moves up the ranks within the company. Additionally, pilots can be eligible for various bonuses and benefits, such as profit sharing and retirement plans.

**Question 4: How does the salary of an American Airlines pilot change over time?**

As an American Airlines pilot gains more experience and seniority within the company, their salary is likely to increase. This can happen through annual salary increases, as well as through promotions to higher ranks within the company.

According to data from Glassdoor, the average salary for an American Airlines pilot with 10-14 years of experience is around $180,000 per year. However, this figure can vary depending on a number of factors, including the pilot’s specific role within the company and the type of aircraft they fly.

**Question 5: What other benefits do American Airlines pilots receive in addition to their salary?**

In addition to their salary, American Airlines pilots are eligible for a range of benefits. These can include health and dental insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, and profit sharing.

Pilots may also be eligible for various bonuses, such as signing bonuses for new hires or performance-based bonuses for experienced pilots. Additionally, American Airlines offers a range of travel benefits to its employees, including free or discounted flights for themselves and their families.

How much do Pilots make? | Pilot SALARY in USA | Salary Breakdown


In conclusion, being a pilot for American Airlines can be a lucrative career choice. The salary for an American Airlines pilot can vary depending on their experience, rank, and type of aircraft they fly. However, on average, an American Airlines pilot makes a six-figure salary, with some senior pilots earning over $300,000 per year.

Becoming a pilot for American Airlines requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for flying. The road to becoming a pilot can be challenging, but the rewards are significant. With competitive salaries, benefits, and the opportunity to travel the world, being an American Airlines pilot can be a dream career for many.

In conclusion, if you have a love for aviation and a desire to become a pilot, American Airlines may be the perfect fit for you. With a strong commitment to safety, innovation, and customer service, American Airlines is a leader in the aviation industry and offers its pilots a rewarding career with excellent compensation and benefits.

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