How much does a pilot earn (pilot salaries)?

Generally in private aviation pilots salaries match the size of the aircraft. (Which is good news for Mustang operators!)

We recently surveyed pilots across the aviation industry on their careers and salaries, and found the average pilot salary is £40 000 - £70 000. Read the full pilot salary survey

For private jet charter advice and prices call our 24 hour expert Flight Team on +44 (0)20 7315 4337 or search for instant estimate prices from your local airport using our flight search:

Example Minimum Mustang Pilot Salaries

First Officers approx £25 000 or freelancers £200 per day
Captains approx £35 000 / £350

However, a Captain being paid £35 000 per year is likely to have very little experience, and it can be cost effective to hire a more experienced Captain on a larger salary. An experienced Mustang Captain is likely to be paid approximately £60 000 per year.

How does an experienced Captain save an aircraft operator money?

Customer Service - the customers generally only meet the aircraft crew, so a good Captain can make a huge difference and keep your passengers loyal. 

Fuel Costs - About 25% of the flight cost is fuel. An experienced Captain can save up to 5% fuel burn by flying an the appropriate levels and by keeping taxi and flight times to a minimum eg knowing when to ask Air Traffic for a short cut.

Retention - Training a pilot to fly the Mustang (type rating) costs about $20 000. Add in the price of additional training courses, uniforms and recruitment and it is very expensive to replace a good crew member.