How much do airline pilots make?

The median salary for commercial airline pilots is $73,280. Some pilots earn less than $38,520 a year while some earn over $134,990. Pay is heavily influenced by experience and seniority.

A pilot's salary is padded by per diem pay for every hour spent away from home. Pilots may also receive extra pay for flying internationally. Airline pilots earn extra benefits in addition to their pay that may include things like free or reduced flights for themselves and family, health insurance and retirement plans. The schedule of an airline pilot is irregular with several long work days in a row followed by several days off. Those with seniority get preferred flight plans.