How Much Can You Earn With A Career In Aviation
The aviation industry is one of the most lucrative fields to work in, with opportunities for high salaries and upward mobility. If you love to fly and have always been fascinated by planes, then a career in aviation might be just what you’re looking for. But how much can you actually earn in this industry?
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Recently, Delta announced that their senior captains are going to make a whopping $600,000 a year. This is just one example of the many opportunities available to aviation professionals. But let’s take a closer look at what you can expect to earn in different roles within the aviation industry.
Pilot
Pilots are the backbone of the aviation industry, responsible for flying and navigating commercial and private aircraft. The amount pilots earn varies depending on their experience, the airline they work for, and their level of certification. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers was $147,220 in May 2019.
However, this number doesn’t account for the recent announcement by Delta that their senior captains are making $600,000 a year. This is highly unusual, as most captains make around $200,000 to $250,000 per year. Seniority and experience play a big role in determining a pilot’s salary, so it’s important to keep that in mind when considering a career as a pilot.
Air Traffic Controller
Air traffic controllers are responsible for managing the flow of commercial and private air traffic in and out of airports. They ensure safe takeoffs and landings by communicating with pilots and monitoring radar screens. The BLS reports that the median annual salary for air traffic controllers was $122,990 in May 2019.
This can be a high-stress job, as air traffic controllers are responsible for ensuring the safety of thousands of people every day. However, the pay is certainly commensurate with the level of responsibility, making this a great career option for those interested in aviation.
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace engineers design and develop aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They work on everything from propulsion systems to electrical and flight control systems. The BLS reports that the median annual salary for aerospace engineers was $116,500 in May 2019.
This is a highly technical job that requires extensive education and training. Aerospace engineers must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field, and many go on to earn a master’s degree or PhD. However, the high salary and demand for these skilled workers make it a worthwhile field to consider.
Aviation Maintenance Technician
Aviation maintenance technicians are responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining aircraft. They work on everything from engines to landing gear and must ensure that all equipment is in working order before a plane takes off. The BLS reports that the median annual salary for aircraft mechanics and service technicians was $64,090 in May 2019.
This is a hands-on job that requires both technical skills and physical stamina. Aviation maintenance technicians must have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a certification program. The good news is that the demand for these jobs is expected to grow in the coming years, making this a stable career option.
Flight Attendant
Flight attendants are responsible for ensuring passengers have a safe and comfortable flight. They provide customer service, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and assist with food and beverage service. The BLS reports that the median annual salary for flight attendants was $56,640 in May 2019.
This can be a great entry-level job for those interested in aviation. The job requires a high school diploma or equivalent, and some airlines also require a certification program. While the salary may be lower than some other careers in aviation, the travel benefits and flexible schedule can be a huge perk for those who love to see new places.
Summary
As you can see, there are many different career paths in the aviation industry, each with their own salary expectations and requirements. Delta’s recent announcement that their senior captains are making $600,000 a year is certainly an outlier, but it does show that there is the potential for high salaries in this field.
Pilots, air traffic controllers, aerospace engineers, aviation maintenance technicians, and flight attendants all have the opportunity to earn well above average salaries. Whether you’re interested in a technical job working on aircraft or in a more customer-facing role, the aviation industry has something for everyone. While the field may be competitive, those who are passionate about aviation have the potential to earn a high salary while doing something they love.
Interested in learning more? Be sure to contact our team of aviation professionals here at First Flight Aviation to learn more about what we can do for you!