Pilot Salary: Average Salary, Starting Pay, Commercial Pilot Salary and Experience Wise Salary

What is the average salary of pilots in India?

The average annual salary of a pilot in India after gaining significant flight hours and experience is INR 35 LPA. The starting salary can be initially low at around INR 3 LPA. The highest salary for a pilot in India is INR 84 LPA. The estimated take-home salary for pilots is between INR 1,68,000 to INR 1,75,000. Other than the salary, pilots are also entitled to bonuses and profit-sharing incentives, travel benefits and per diems for international flights.

What is the starting salary for airline pilots in India?

The starting salary for airline pilots in India varies based on different airlines. The salary is based on the airline type and the aircraft flown. Generally, new pilots with less than 1-year of experience are compensated between INR 30,000 to INR 1,50,000 per month.

How automation has affected pilot salaries?

While automation has caused significant changes in the aviation industry, it has not affected pilot salaries much. Modern technologies have reduced the workload on pilots, but they are still required to effectively operate them and make crucial decisions. Because of this, the pilots are still in demand with competitive salaries. With advancements, they may affect the pilot's salary in future because of the reduced crew that can affect the demand.

What are regional and major airline pilot salaries in India?

While the pilots at both airlines earn well, the regional pilots are generally compensated less compared to a major airline pilot in India. Their salaries are based on experience, aircraft type, rank and other factors. For example, a pilot at a regional airline like Alliance Air generally earns between INR 1 LPA to INR 3 LPA per month. In a major airline like IndiGo, a senior pilot can earn up to INR 6 LPA per month.

What is the salary of a pilot after tax in India?

In India, a pilot’s salary after tax will depend on their earning and tax bracket. Pilot salary after tax can vary based on factors like experience, employer and the aircraft type. Experienced pilot earning the most will fall under the highest tax bracket, reducing their take-home salary by 30% to 35%. Pilots with less experience and low earnings will have lower deductions based on their particular tax bracket.

How does an experience level affect a pilot's salary?

Experience is one of the determining factors and plays an important role in deciding a pilot’s salary. Experienced pilots are compensated more because of their accumulated flight hours compared to those with less experience. You can check the pilot salaries based on their years of experience in the following table.

What is the salary of a pilot in India according to designation?

There are different designations for pilots in airlines. These are based on experience and the pilots are promoted to higher positions when they meet the required experience or working hours. You can check the designation-wise pilot salaries in major Indian airlines in the table below.

What is the average salary of a commercial pilot in India?

Commercial pilots ensure the safe transport of passengers and cargo by following the regulations and flight routes. The average salary of a commercial pilot in India is between INR 10 LPA to INR 20 LPA. Experienced commercial pilots can earn up to INR 50 LPA or more.

How does an aircraft mechanic's salary compare to an airline pilot’s salary?

The salary of an aircraft mechanic is generally lower compared to a pilot. Aircraft mechanic like an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) typically earns between INR 6 LPA to INR 12 LPA. Senior engineers can earn up to INR 20 LPA. On the other hand, pilots, especially those working for big airlines can earn substantially more based on their experience and rank. Pilots are paid more because of their training, responsibilities and skills.

What is the salary of a pilot in India according to the sector?

Pilots work in many sectors in India. Their salaries can vary based on the sectors they work in. Some of the top sectors along with their salaries are mentioned in the table below for your reference.

What is the salary of pilots in different companies in India?

Many airlines operating in India require pilots to fill their needs and operate their aircraft. Their salaries can vary based on the company they work for. You can check the average salaries for some of the top Indian airlines in the following table.