Ever wondered what your bank balance could look like after a month in the cockpit? A pilot’s pay can change a lot during their career. New pilots usually earn less while they build flight hours and experience. However, their income can grow as they move into higher roles. So, how much do pilots earn UK per month? The honest answer depends on the airline, pilot rank, aircraft type and experience. Some junior first officers may earn around £2,000 a month. Meanwhile, senior captains can earn more than £15,000 per month. Pilots may also receive extra money from flight duties and allowances.
This guide breaks down UK pilot pay in a simple way. You will see what pilots can earn at different career stages.
How Much Does a First Officer Earn Per Month?
A First Officer helps the captain fly the plane safely. They check the flight plan and help control the aircraft. They also watch the plane during the flight. It is an important job and it can offer good pay. A First Officer can earn around £2,500 to £10,500 per month before tax. However, pay can change based on the airline, experience and flight hours.
New First Officer
New First Officers often earn less at the start. They may earn around £2,000 to £3,000 per month at smaller airlines. At this stage, they build flight hours and learn more about the job.
Experienced First Officer
Experienced First Officers can earn more. On short-haul flights, they may earn around £3,500 to £5,100 a month. At major airlines, pay may rise to around £5,400 to £6,800 a month. Senior First Officers can earn even more. On long-haul routes, some may earn around £7,900 to £12,500 a month. They may also receive extra pay for certain flights and duties.
How Much Does a Captain Earn Per Month?
Becoming a captain can mean a much higher salary. A captain has more skills and training than a First Officer. They also lead the flight and make important choices. So, they usually earn more. A UK airline captain can earn around £8,000 to £15,000 or more per month before tax. The exact pay depends on the airline, plane, route and experience.
Short-Haul Captain
A short-haul captain can earn around £100,000 to £145,000 a year. This works out at about £8,300 to £12,100 a month before tax. These pilots often fly short trips across the UK and Europe. Also, their pay can rise as they gain more experience.
Long-Haul Captain
Long-haul captains can earn even more. Senior captains may earn £145,000 to £167,000 or more per year. This can equal more than £12,000 per month before tax. They may also get extra money for long flights and other duties. Some senior captains can earn £15,000 or more each month. So, more experience can lead to much higher pay.
How Much Do Pilots Earn UK Per Month?
Pilot pay can change from one airline to another. Your rank, skills and flying hours also affect your pay. A new First Officer may earn around £2,000 to £3,300 per month. An experienced First Officer may earn £4,500 to £7,800 per month. Captains usually earn more because they have more skills and duties. A Captain can earn around £8,300 to £14,000+ per month. Senior long-haul Captains can earn £15,000 to £18,500+ per month.
At British Airways, First Officers may earn around £5,400 to £12,500+. Captains may earn £10,000 to £18,500+. At Virgin Atlantic, First Officers may earn £4,500 to £10,000+. Captains may earn £10,000 to £17,000+. At easyJet, First Officers may earn £3,500 to £8,000+. Captains may earn £8,000 to £13,000+. Jet2, TUI Airways and Ryanair also offer different pay rates. A pilot’s basic salary forms the main part of their pay. However, pilots may also get money for extra flying and allowances. Long-haul flights and more experience can also increase total pay.
What Affects a Pilot’s Monthly Salary?
A pilot’s monthly pay can change for many reasons. So, not every pilot earns the same amount. Your experience, rank, airline and flying hours can all make a difference.
- Experience: More flight experience can help you earn more. New pilots often start with lower pay. However, their salary can grow as they gain more hours and skills.
- Pilot Rank: Your job role also affects your pay. First Officers usually earn less than Captains. Captains have more duties, so they usually earn more.
- Airline: Each airline has its own pay system. Therefore, two pilots with similar experience may earn different salaries at different airlines.
- Flight Type: The type of flying can also affect your income. Long-haul flights may offer higher pay than short-haul flights.
- Flight Hours: Flying more hours can sometimes increase your total pay. However, this depends on the airline’s pay rules and contract.
- Allowances: Pilots may get extra money for some trips and duties. These payments can cover things such as meals, travel, or overnight stays.
- Seniority: Seniority can also affect your pay and job choices. As you spend more time with an airline, you may get better roles and more flying options.
Do Pilot Salaries Increase With Experience?
Yes, pilot pay can grow as a pilot gains more experience. Most pilots do not start with a very high salary. They need time to build their skills and flight hours. A new pilot usually starts as a trainee. After training, they can become a First Officer. At this stage, they work with the Captain and learn more about flying large aircraft.
With more flight hours, a First Officer can earn more money. Their salary may also rise as they gain more skills and spend more time with the airline. After gaining enough experience, a First Officer can move up to Captain. This is a big step in a pilot’s career. Captains have more duties and make important choices during flights. So, they usually earn much more than First Officers.
Later, a Captain can become a Senior Captain. At this stage, they may have many years of flying experience. They may also get more chances to fly long-haul routes. Long-haul work can bring higher pay and extra money. Therefore, a pilot’s total earnings can grow strongly over time.
The career path often looks like this:
Trainee → First Officer → Experienced First Officer → Captain → Senior Captain
Do Pilots Get Extra Money Besides Their Salary?
Yes, pilots can earn extra money besides their basic salary. However, the amount depends on the airline and the pilot’s contract. One common payment is flight duty pay. Pilots may get extra money for the hours they spend flying. More flying can sometimes mean more total pay.
Pilots may also get overnight allowances. These payments can help cover costs when they stay away from home for work. Some airlines also offer travel allowances. Pilots may get money for travel linked to their work. They can also receive meal allowances during some trips.
Extra flying can bring more pay too. For example, a pilot may earn extra money when they take on additional flights or duties. Some airlines may also offer bonuses. These can depend on the airline, job role, or work rules.
Other payments can also form part of a pilot’s total earnings. However, every airline has its own rules. So, a pilot’s basic salary does not always show their full income. Extra payments can make a useful difference to their monthly pay.
How Can You Become a Pilot in the UK?
Becoming a pilot takes time and hard work. However, it can lead to an exciting career. Here are the main steps to follow.
Step 1: Meet the Entry Requirements
You need to meet the age and health rules. You also need good English skills. Maths can help with basic flight calculations. Check the latest UK CAA rules before you start.
Step 2: Get a Pilot Licence
You need the right licence to work as a commercial pilot. The UK CAA sets the main rules for pilot licences. A good flight school can help you choose the right training route.
Step 3: Complete Flight Training
Your training includes ground lessons and flight practice. You will learn about aircraft, weather, safety and navigation. Moreover, you also need to pass exams and flight tests. You must complete the required flight hours.Â
Step 4: Build Your Experience
After getting your licence, you need more flying experience. More flight hours can help you move closer to an airline job. You may start with smaller flying jobs.
Step 5: Apply to Airlines
When you meet the airline’s requirements, you can apply for pilot jobs. You may need to attend interviews and simulator tests. Airlines may also run other tests. If you pass, you will complete more training before flying for the airline.
Is Being a Pilot a Well-Paid Career in the UK?
Yes, being a pilot can be a well-paid job in the UK. However, new pilots may not earn a high salary at first. Their pay often grows with their skills and flight hours. Pilots can earn more than many other UK workers. Experienced pilots can earn a strong salary. Senior Captains can earn even more, especially on long flights.
However, becoming a pilot can cost a lot of money. Training, exams and flying lessons can cost thousands of pounds. So, you need to plan your money before you start. Pilots also have a big job to do. They must keep passengers safe during every flight. They need to stay calm and make good choices. This level of responsibility helps explain their higher pay.
The career also gives you room to grow. You may start as a First Officer. Then, you can gain more flight hours and skills. Later, you may become a Captain and earn more. So, being a pilot can be a good career choice. However, the salary is only one part of the job. You should also think about training costs, work pressure and career growth.
Final Thoughts
So, how much do pilots earn UK per month? It depends on their job, airline, skills and flying hours. New pilots may earn less at first. However, their pay can grow with more experience. First Officers can move up and become Captains. Senior Captains can earn much more, especially on long flights. Pilots may also get extra pay for some flights and trips. Still, pilot training can cost a lot of money. If you enjoy flying, this career can offer good pay and steady growth.
FAQs
1. Is it hard to become a pilot in the UK?
- Yes, it can be hard. You need proper training, exams, flight hours and a medical check. Training can also cost a lot of money.
2. How much does an easyJet Captain earn?
- An easyJet Captain may earn around £8,000 to £13,000+ per month. Pay can change with experience and flying hours.
3. Which UK airline pays pilots the most?
- British Airways can offer some of the highest pilot pay in the UK. Senior pilots may earn over £15,000 per month.
4. What airline pays the most for Captains?
- Large airlines often pay Captains more. In the UK, British Airways offers strong pay for experienced Captains.
5. What do easyJet cabin crew get paid?
- easyJet cabin crew may earn around £22,000 to £30,000+ per year. Pay can change with experience and extra payments.
6. How hard is it to become an easyJet pilot?
- It can be challenging. You need the right training and licences. You also need to pass medical checks and easyJet’s tests.
