How much do pilots make?

As of 2014, airline and commercial pilots have the ability to make an average annual salary of $98,000. However, most pilots start out their career earning as little as $20,000 per year. Individuals who work as military pilots generally earn between $33,941 to $42,703 per year.

In order to become a commercial or airline pilot, an individual must become licensed by the FAA. An airline-transport pilot certification is also required. Some employers require that pilots have a certain number of flight hours, which can be obtained throughout a pilot's career. Employers may also require that their pilots have a minimum of a bachelor's degree.