Pilot Take Home Pay

Pilot Salary in the UK

First officers earn £40,000-£70,000. Captains at major airlines earn £100,000-£170,000. The average across all commercial pilots is around £85,000.

On the average pilot salary of £85,000, you'll take home £59,857 per year or £4,988 per month after income tax and National Insurance.

Career Progression for Pilots

Pilots in the UK can expect significant salary variation based on experience and specialisation. Entry-level roles start around £32,000, rising to £60,000 at mid-career level. Senior pilots earn around £140,000, with top earners (Long-haul captain) reaching £200,000+.

Qualifications and Entry Requirements

ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot Licence) through either integrated training (14-18 months, £80,000-£130,000) or modular training (self-paced, £50,000-£80,000). Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) is the minimum for paid flying. Type ratings for specific aircraft cost an additional £25,000-£30,000.

Job Demand and Outlook

Strong demand as airlines expand post-pandemic. The global pilot shortage is projected to worsen through to 2040. Airlines are increasingly offering sponsored training programmes to attract candidates. Low-cost carriers offer faster progression to captain than legacy airlines.

Career Path and Progression

First Officer at a regional airline, then First Officer at a major airline, Senior First Officer, and Captain. Long-haul captains at major airlines earn the highest salaries. Some pilots transition to training captain roles, management, or regulatory positions. Helicopter pilots follow a separate career path with different earning structures.

Tax Tips for Pilots

The high cost of training means many pilots carry significant debt early in their careers. Tax relief on training costs is not typically available for employed pilots. Flight duty pay and allowances can significantly boost base salary. See £60,000 after tax for the take home breakdown.

See the exact breakdown for £85,000 salary or browse all profession salaries.