How much does a Pilot First Officer make in the United States?
-
The average Pilot First Officer salary in the United States is $143,517 as of September 2026. The range for our most popular Pilot First Officer positions (listed below) typically falls between $128,255 and $158,778. Keep in mind that salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including position, education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
| Job Title | Salary | Hourly Rate | Location | Date Updated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Officer Pilot | $162,900 | $78.32 | United States | September 2026 |
| airline pilot first officer | $140,983 | $67.78 | United States | September 2026 |
| First Officer | $142,500 | $68.51 | United States | September 2026 |
| Pilot II | $142,463 | $68.49 | United States | September 2026 |
| Aircraft First Officer | $153,901 | $73.99 | United States | September 2026 |
| Petty Officer First Class | $94,590 | $45.48 | United States | September 2026 |
| Medical Transport Pilot | $103,367 | $49.70 | United States | September 2026 |
| Chief Helicopter Pilot | $165,953 | $79.79 | United States | September 2026 |
| Chief Pilot I | $171,020 | $82.22 | United States | September 2026 |
| Test Pilot Manager | $194,127 | $93.33 | United States | September 2026 |
-
Provides leadership and management of pilots, schedules, and records to maintain efficient and safe flight operations, comply with all FAA regulations, and deliver operational performance on company goals. Maintains the required FAA records and documentation for certifications, crews, flight times, aircraft, and activity. Keeps informed about current aviation developments and regulations that impact flight operations. Coordinates pilot training and development plans to ensure all are ready for flight duty. Uses the Safety Management System (SMS) to identify, mitigate, and manage risk in operations. May require a bachelor's degree. Requires Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate. Requires FAA Commercial Pilot's License. Typically reports to a director or head of a unit/department. Manages subordinate staff in the day-to-day performance of their jobs. True first level manager. Ensures that project/department milestones/goals are met and adhering to approved budgets. Has full authority for personnel actions. Typically requires 5 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. 1 - 3 years supervisory experience may be required. Extensive knowledge of the function and department processes. View Chief Pilot I SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Airline Pilot, Chief Pilot Assistant Air Fleet ManagerCategory : Aviation and Airlines
-
Pilots or co-pilots aircraft following standard operating procedures to ensure that flights operate according to all regulations, safety, and company policies. Follows required procedures to perform pre-flight checks and inspections. Determines flight routes, speed, take-off, and landing times that will fulfill scheduling requirements. Completes required documentation and performs post-flight procedures as required. May require a bachelor's degree. Requires Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate. Requires FAA Commercial Pilot's License. Typically reports to chief pilot. Work is generally independent and collaborative in nature. Contributes to moderately complex aspects of a project. Typically requires 4 -7 years of related experience. View Pilot II SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Airline Co-Pilot, First OfficerCategory : Aviation and Airlines
-
Pilots or co-pilots aircraft following standard operating procedures to ensure that flights operate according to all regulations, safety, and company policies. Follows required procedures to perform pre-flight checks and inspections. Determines flight routes, speed, take-off, and landing times that will fulfill scheduling requirements. Completes required documentation and performs post-flight procedures as required. May require a bachelor's degree. Requires Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate. Requires FAA Commercial Pilot's License. Typically reports to chief pilot. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Gaining exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Typically requires 2 -4 years of related experience. View Pilot I SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Co-PilotCategory : Aviation and Airlines