European Pilots Salary in 2025

Piloting an aircraft is one of the most prestigious and well-compensated professions in the world. In Europe, pilots are highly trained professionals, responsible for ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers while navigating complex airspace. As of 2025, the salary of European pilots is influenced by various factors including experience, airline, and geographical location. In this article, we will dive into the average salary range for European pilots, factors that influence earnings, salary progression, job market trends, and the certifications and education needed to maximize earning potential.

Average Salary Range for European Pilots in 2025

European pilots’ salaries can vary widely depending on the airline, country, and experience. However, an average range can give you a clear idea of what to expect.

First Officers (Co-Pilots): The starting salary for first officers typically ranges from €40,000 to €70,000 per year. Entry-level pilots with little experience may begin at the lower end of this range, while those working for larger or more prestigious airlines might start at higher pay levels.
Captains: With more experience and responsibility, captains earn significantly higher salaries. In 2025, the average salary for a captain in Europe ranges between €70,000 and €150,000 per year. Captains working for major international carriers or those flying long-haul routes can earn salaries on the higher end of this range.
Top-Earning Pilots: Highly experienced captains or those working for the most renowned airlines in Europe may earn €200,000 or more annually. Pilots who also serve in specialized roles, such as training captains or check airmen, may see their salaries rise accordingly.

Salary by Region

United Kingdom: A first officer in the UK may earn between £40,000 and £60,000, while a captain could see annual earnings between £70,000 and £120,000.
Germany: Pilots in Germany generally have a slightly higher pay scale, with first officers earning between €50,000 and €75,000, and captains earning up to €150,000 annually.
France: First officers in France typically earn around €45,000 to €65,000, and captains can make up to €120,000 or more.
Scandinavia (Sweden, Norway, Denmark): Pilots in these regions tend to earn higher-than-average salaries. First officers start around €55,000 to €80,000, while captains can earn up to €150,000 to €200,000 annually.

Factors Influencing European Pilots’ Earnings

Several key factors affect how much a European pilot can earn. Understanding these factors can help aspiring pilots make informed decisions about their careers.

1. Experience and Seniority

The more experience a pilot has, the higher their earning potential. First officers can expect to earn more as they gain flight hours, and captains earn the highest salaries after accumulating significant flight experience.
Seniority also plays a role. Pilots who have worked with an airline for many years often have the opportunity to upgrade to captain positions, boosting their salaries.

2. Type of Airline

Pilots employed by major international airlines, such as Lufthansa, British Airways, or Air France, generally earn higher salaries compared to those working for regional or budget airlines.
Flag carriers and larger airlines typically offer more attractive compensation packages, including bonuses, benefits, and allowances, whereas budget carriers might offer lower base salaries but make up for it with various perks.

3. Flight Type

Pilots flying long-haul international flights generally earn more than those flying short-haul domestic flights, due to the longer working hours and the added responsibilities involved.
Long-haul pilots typically enjoy higher salaries, more extended layovers, and premium benefits due to the international nature of their job.

4. Location

The country in which the airline is based significantly impacts pilots’ salaries. Western European countries, such as Switzerland, Germany, and the UK, generally offer higher salaries compared to Eastern European countries.

5. Union Representation

Pilots who belong to strong labor unions can negotiate better pay and benefits. Unionized pilots often have more favorable working conditions, higher salaries, and stronger job security.

Salary Progression Based on Experience

The salary of European pilots increases significantly with experience. Here is an overview of what pilots can expect as they advance in their careers:

Entry-Level (0-3 Years): First officers typically earn between €40,000 and €60,000. They may work for regional airlines or in a probationary period to build flight hours.
Mid-Level (3-7 Years): Experienced first officers and co-pilots can earn between €60,000 and €100,000, depending on the airline and location. As they accumulate flight hours, their salary will increase.
Senior-Level (7+ Years): Captains with substantial experience earn between €100,000 and €150,000, with opportunities to move to higher-paying international airlines or long-haul routes.

Job Market Trends for Pilots in 2025

The demand for pilots across Europe is expected to remain strong in 2025, driven by several factors:

Post-Pandemic Recovery: As the global economy recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, air travel is expected to surge, driving demand for more pilots to fill positions.
Airline Growth: Many European airlines are expanding their fleets and routes, creating new opportunities for pilots at all levels.
Retirements and Shortages: The aviation industry is experiencing a wave of retirements among older pilots, creating job openings and pushing up demand for new pilots.

Benefits of Becoming a Pilot

Apart from the attractive salary, being a pilot comes with several other benefits:

Travel Opportunities: Pilots get to visit different cities and countries as part of their job, making it an exciting career for those who love travel.
Job Stability: The aviation industry offers a high level of job security, with strong demand for pilots expected to continue.
Perks: Many airlines offer additional perks, such as free or discounted travel for pilots and their families, health insurance, and retirement plans.
Professional Development: Pilots are constantly upgrading their skills through training, keeping the role engaging and dynamic.

Certifications and Education That Impact Salary

While a career as a pilot requires substantial investment in training and education, having the right certifications and qualifications can directly impact salary.

1. Basic Requirements

ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License): The ATPL is the highest level of pilot certification required for those who wish to become captains. Obtaining this license is essential for advancing in the industry.

2. Additional Certifications

Type Ratings: Pilots who specialize in certain aircraft types (e.g., Boeing 777, Airbus A320) can earn more due to their specific qualifications.
Flight Instructor License: Some pilots choose to become flight instructors to gain additional hours and qualifications, which can open up opportunities for higher-paying positions.

Conclusion

The salary for European pilots in 2025 is competitive, with significant earning potential depending on factors such as experience, airline, flight type, and location. As demand for pilots continues to grow, especially in the post-pandemic world, the job outlook remains strong. By obtaining the necessary certifications, gaining flight experience, and working with reputable airlines, aspiring pilots can enjoy a rewarding career both financially and professionally.