How Much Does a Commercial Pilot Make?
Commercial Pilots transport people and goods from one location to another. And they do it in style, too—soaring through the clouds with the birds and reaching for the open skies. Needless to say, this training-intensive profession requires both classroom instruction and practical experience.
Commercial Pilot jobs are perhaps the most well known among all the jobs in the aviation industry, but there’s more to this career than just flying commercial airlines. Pilot careers also include crop dusting, aircraft testing, transporting passengers as a Private Pilot, and assisting law enforcement and military operations as a Search and Rescue Pilot.
What is the average salary of a Commercial Pilot?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average salary of a Commercial Pilot is $77,200 per year. The lowest-paid 10 percent of Commercial Pilots earn $39,430, while the highest-paid 10 percent earn more than $147,240 annually.
The factors that determine the average salary of a Commercial Pilot include the type of industry, location, and the Commercial Pilot’s experience. For example, Commercial Pilots in New Hampshire earn an average of $113,020 annually, as opposed to those in Virginia who earn $85,820 per year.
The average salary of a Commercial Pilot also varies depending on the metropolitan region of employment. Commercial Pilots in the Dallas, Texas area earn $80,740 on average, while those in Las Vegas, Nevada earn $77,850 annually. Airline Pilots earn an average salary of $127,820 annually, while those who fly sightseeing and scenic flights earn $77,200.
Are Commercial Pilot jobs available?
According to the projections of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Commercial Pilot industry is expected to grow at a slower than average rate when compared to all occupations. Pilots seeking employment with a commercial airline company will face a very competitive job market. However, regional airlines and low-cost companies provide the best opportunities for new Pilots looking for a job.
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