STUDENT RESOURCES

Once a pilot obtains their commercial certificate and ratings, the next step is to build flight experience by obtaining an entry-level job to gain the 1500 hours required to get an ATP certificate.  Pilots often become Certified Flight Instructors to gain these hours and to minimize costs while perfecting their aviation, leadership and communication skills.
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With about 1500 hours experience, Commercial Pilots can apply for a first officer job with a regional airline.  Today, many regional airlines cover the cost of an ATP certificate.  

Within 2 – 3 years, many first officers can upgrade to captain.  And within 5 years, many have the hours and experience to apply at the major airlines where the pay and perks increase with seniority.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of airline and commercial pilots is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. Most job opportunities will arise from the need to replace pilots who leave the occupation permanently over the projection period.
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Due to prior hiring practices by the airlines, a large number of pilots, nearly 20,000 are due to retire in the next five years. This will create many openings with the major carriers which, in turn, will increase demand for pilots at the regional airlines.  And regional airlines are where many young pilots start their careers

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the average annual airline pilot salary as of 2019 is $174,870.

Regional First Officers have a starting pilot salary of between $40k-$50k with Captains earning $60k-$80k minimum.

A charter pilot’s salary can rage anywhere from $60k-$200k.

Major airline and cargo pilot pay varies based on seniority and aircraft but can be anywhere from $65-$150k within the first 5 years and can increase to upwards of $300k.