What is a good salary for a Commercial Airline Pilot?

In 2026, a good Commercial Airline Pilot salary is around $174K (the national median). $210K+ is great (top 25%), and $249K+ is top-tier (top 10%). Earning below $144K is under market — worth a negotiation.

Below market< $144K

Under the 25th percentile — grounds to negotiate.

Decent$144K–$174K

Solid for early-career or lower-cost areas.

Good$174K–$210K

At/above the median — a genuinely good salary.

Great / top$210K+

Top quartile; $249K+ is top 10%.

It depends on where and how senior you are

Is it good in your city? →Commercial Airline Pilot pay by experience →Am I underpaid? →

Common questions

What is a good salary for a Commercial Airline Pilot in 2026?

A good Commercial Airline Pilot salary is around $174K (the national median). $210K+ is great (top 25%) and $249K+ is top-tier (top 10%). Anything below $144K is under market for the role.

What is a high salary for a Commercial Airline Pilot?

$210K puts you in the top quartile; $249K or more is top-10% pay for a Commercial Airline Pilot. Reaching it usually means senior level, in-demand skills, or a high-cost metro.

Does a good Commercial Airline Pilot salary depend on location?

Yes — the same number goes much further in a low-cost city. Use the cost-of-living check to see what a salary is really worth where you live.

Percentiles from BLS-anchored national data; a good salary also depends on cost of living and your level.