Fly scheduled passenger or cargo routes for a certificated air carrier — the most common destination for career pilots worldwide.

Salary by Career Stage

Entry

$50,000-$100,000 (regional first officer, US)

Mid-Career

$150,000-$220,000 (mainline first officer)

Senior

$300,000-$500,000+ (mainline captain, wide-body international)

Top US legacy captains on 777/787 with seniority can clear $700k. Middle East tax‑free packages add 20-30% effective. Asian carriers vary widely.

Requirements

Licenses & Ratings

• Type Rating for the specific aircraft

Flight Hours

1,500 hours total time (FAA Part 121 minimum), 1,000 hours under EASA before unrestricted line operations

Medical

FAA First Class / EASA Class 1

Min Age

21

Additional Certifications

Pros

• Highest cap on lifetime earnings of any commercial flying caree...