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Pilot, cabin crew, ATC, and aviation engineering compensation — sourced from union contracts and FAA records.

2 stories published

airlines crew members at usa airport ensuring aircraft readiness

Airline Jobs in the USA: Salaries, Roles & How to Apply

Over 7,500 airline jobs are open in the USA right now and they pay more than ever. Pilots earn a median of $226,600 a year, mechanics clear $78,000, and even entry level roles come with free flights. Here is exactly what each job pays and how to get hired.

Greg BarlowJun 7, 202610 min read

two pilots in cockpit navigating airplane at high altitude

Careers

United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Pilot Salary: Big 3 Pay Compared (2026)

Most pilot salary guides still quote $465/hr as the Big 3 peak. That number is wrong. United widebody captains now earn $483.74/hr at Year 12 and the gap in total compensation between Delta, United, and American is bigger than the base rates suggest. Here is the exact 2026 breakdown.

Greg BarlowJun 2, 202612 min