Piloting is one of the most esteemed jobs that requires the utmost responsibility and professionalism. Pursuing a piloting career means going through rigorous flight training, type ratings, certification, and medical examinations. Licensed pilots can fly private aircraft or commercial jets depending on the type of license and aircraft type ratings acquired.
Piloting is a rewarding career, both in terms of pride and salary, particularly when sufficient flying hours have been attained. A pilot’s salary primarily depends on the operator, location, and flying experience. While pilots can fly for an operator having just a few hundred flying hours, those with 2,000-3,000 hours receive better perks. The average annual private pilot salary in New York City is $143,227. That is equivalent to approximately $11,935 per month, $2,754 per week, or $69 per hour.
Pilot salaries vary based on experience
Average salary: $143,277
Low earners: $54,155
Top earners: $219,900
25th percentile: $109,400
75th percentile: $169,600
90th percentile: $191,455
ZipRecruiter states that pilot salaries in New York range from $54,155 to $219,900, depending on the location, company, and pilot experience. New York City offers some of the highest salaries, thanks to the cost of living in the area. Highest earners may earn up to $259,000 a year, equivalent to $21,583 per month, 4,980 per week, or $125 per hour. The majority of private pilot salaries in the metropolitan hub range between $109,400 (25th percentile) and $169,600 (75th percentile). A small portion of top earners, approximately the 90th percentile, make $191,455 annually.
Private jet with pilot and executives boarding
Photo: Tom Kuest - Fotograf | Shutterstock
According to ZipRecruiter, the average pay varies slightly, approximately $60,000, suggesting that most locations within the state pay in the same range. With the ever-increasing need for private pilots in New York City and its surrounding regions, the job market is very active.
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Other similar job markets
The Empire State is known for its diversity in terms of people, business, and outreach. A wide range of small and large companies, including governments, offer jobs related to private pilots in the area. ZipRecruiter states that a comprehensive analysis of other similar jobs in New York City includes NetJets (miscellaneous jobs, including pilots), JetBlue Flight Attendants, First Officers with the airline, Executive jet pilots, and specialized flight pilots. These jobs pay anywhere between 30,000 and $133,000, depending on the company and the experience of the personnel.
A flight attendant greets two passengers in front of a business jet on an airport apron.
Photo: Luxaviation | ANDREAS WEMHEUER
NetJets: $30,588 annually ($14.71 hourly)
JetBlue Flight Attendant: $51,506 annually ($24.76 hourly)
Airline Pilot First Officer: $95,339 annually ($45.84 hourly)
Executive Jet Pilot: $102,349 annually ($49.21 hourly)
NetJets: $133,091 annually ($63.99 hourly)
Notably, large US airlines such as American, Delta, and United generally deploy their newly-recruited (inexperienced) pilots with their affiliate regional carriers. As such, newly licensed commercial pilots may work for a few years for regional carriers like SkyWest, Envoy Air, and Horizon Air, before continuing on with the mainline carrier.
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Factors affecting private jet pilot salaries
Number of years of private piloting experience
Number of flying hours on record
Location of employment
Type of private aircraft flown
Number of type ratings achieved
Company or individual employer
Pilot experience, location, type of jet flown, and company are major factors that affect private pilot salaries. Pilots working in large cities, such as New York City, tend to earn more than those in relatively smaller regions, such as Buffalo, NY. The cost of living and other expenses essentially balance out the high salaries received in larger cities.
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Pilot salaries also vary based on pilot experience and the type of jet flown. Larger jets generally require extensive training and greater skills. Pilots with type ratings and experience with larger jets tend to get much higher pay than others.
Another major factor is the company or individuals who employ private pilots. Working as a private jet pilot for an individual, such as an executive or a celebrity, pays a lot more than working for a private jet charter company.
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Private pilot compensation and benefits
Besides the base salary that private jet pilots receive, individual or corporate employers may offer a range of benefits as part of the employment contract. These top-ups range from health and retirement benefits to travel allowances and annual bonuses.
Base salary
A yearly or monthly compensation is offered to the private pilot. This salary is typically subject to applicable taxes. Other benefits may or may not be taxed.
Benefits
Pilots flying for individuals or corporate clients may earn significant annual bonuses. The number of yearly bonuses or the bonus amount may depend on performance or the number of flight hours completed during the time.
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Health benefits
Private pilots employed by corporations, including private charter companies, receive benefit packages that include health insurance and other benefits like paid time off. For example, NetJets offers generous time off for its pilots, including two weeks a year for 1–4 years of completed service, three weeks for 5–9 years of completed service, and four weeks for 10+ years of completed service.
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Retirement plans
Large companies offer retirement plans for private pilots, particularly those that are employed directly with the corporation with full-time employment. Notably, wealthy individuals may offer health and retirement benefits through their private businesses or third-party companies. According to FlexJets,
"Pilots are eligible after 30 days of employment and can contribute 1% to 90% of gross salary, up to the annual IRS maximum of $23,000 and $7,500 catch-up (over age 50)."
"The Company will match up to 6%, dollar for dollar, of what the employee contributes to his or her 401(k). Flexjet offers annual retirement benefits up to 18% of earnings, in 401(k) match and direct contribution."
Gulfstream II Travolta
Photo: US Air Force
Per diem allowances
Private jet pilots may receive per diem allowances for food and lodging during their work travel. Long-haul flights, particularly international flights, require pilots to stay off-site, enabling the opportunity for travel and transportation allowances. Pilots may also get paid for staying away from home for extended periods. According to NetJets,
“Our pilots have the freedom to live nearly anywhere, including over 200 bases across the U.S. We believe all our crew members, regardless of tenure, deserve to choose where they call home. That’s why base selections are not determined by seniority. Joining NetJets does not have to mean relocating, but it can open new possibilities for you and your family.”
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Training and certifications
Private jet pilots generally have their periodic training and certifications covered while employed by an individual or a corporation. According to FlexJet,
"As a Flexjet pilot, you are the face of our Company and interact with our high-net-worth aircraft Owners daily. As such, Flexjet pilots lead the way in service, safety, and style, and we reward this with a lifestyle far superior to other aviation providers."
King Air climbing after takeoff.
Photo: Textron Aviation
Private pilot job responsibilities
The responsibilities of private jet pilots extend beyond flying the aircraft. Private pilots must be hospitable and able to coordinate their customers' needs for a smooth travel experience.
Transportation of passengers and cargo
Determining the safe routes
Flight plans and analysis
Weather planning
Fuel calculation
Operational inspections and navigation
Hospitable with clients
Ensuring clients receive a smooth experience
A British Airways Pilot in the Flight Simulator Hall
Photo: British Airways
The responsibilities of a private jet pilot extend beyond just flying the aircraft. They must diligently plan and prepare for each flight, considering factors such as weather conditions, fuel requirements, and aircraft performance. Additionally, they need to coordinate with ground staff, air traffic controllers, and clients to ensure a smooth travel experience.
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One of the significant challenges for private jet pilots is maintaining a high level of discretion and professionalism. They often interact with influential individuals and celebrities who value their privacy. Respecting confidentiality and adhering to strict security measures are crucial aspects of the job.
Furthermore, private jet pilots must continuously update their knowledge and skills through regular training and certifications. Safety is paramount in aviation, and pilots must be well-prepared to handle emergencies and unexpected situations.