Pilot salaries vary significantly based on experience and rank. According to L3Harris Airline Academy, you start your career earning an average salary between £24,000 and £28,000 as a Junior First Officer. As you progress through the ranks to Senior First Captain and eventually Captain, you can expect your earnings to exceed £100,000.
Pilot Salary Ranges
Here's a breakdown of expected pilot salaries based on career progression, as highlighted by L3Harris Airline Academy:
| Pilot Role | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Junior First Officer | £24,000 - £28,000 |
| Senior First Captain | Progression upwards |
| Captain | Over £100,000 |
This table illustrates the potential for significant salary growth within the piloting profession as experience is gained and responsibility increases.
Career Progression and Earnings
Starting your journey in aviation typically begins in a junior role, like a Junior First Officer. This initial phase involves building flying hours and experience, which is reflected in the starting salary range of £24,000 to £28,000.
As pilots gain experience and seniority, they move into roles such as Senior First Captain. While the specific salary for Senior First Captains isn't detailed in the provided reference, it's clear that this role represents a step towards higher earnings.
The pinnacle of an airline pilot's career is often reaching the rank of Captain. This position comes with the highest level of responsibility for the aircraft and its passengers, and consequently, commands a significantly higher salary, exceeding £100,000. This progression highlights that a pilot's earning potential increases substantially with experience and rank.
