TransportationOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Airline Pilot Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$316,368/yr
Typical range: $282,267 – $344,982
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Airline Pilot salary by experience level in Chicago
Airline Pilot Salary Progression in Chicago
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $153,664 | $12,805 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $189,821 | $15,818 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $213,925 | $17,827 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $244,055 | $20,338 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $316,368 | $26,364 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $385,065 | $32,089 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $402,239 | $33,520 | +162% |
Current Salary
$316,368
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $152/hr
Next Level Target
$385,065
Principal · 14
+$69Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
52/100
Moderate
+14% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Airline Pilot salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Airline Pilots in Chicago, IL earn approximately $316K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Airline Pilot make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $316K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $152/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Airline Pilot in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Airline Pilot in Chicago, IL earns $282K–$345K/yr.