The aviation industry is the backbone of global transportation, and behind every successful flight is a team of essential ground crew members—among them, airline fuelers play a critical role. As of 2025, the demand for skilled fuelers is steadily rising, and understanding what these professionals earn is crucial for anyone considering a career in aviation operations.
In this article, we’ll explore:
Average airline fueler salary in 2025
Salary by experience level
Factors that influence pay
Job outlook and trends
Required certifications and education
Additional benefits and perks
What Is the Average Airline Fueler Salary in 2025?
As of 2025, the average annual salary for an airline fueler in the U.S. is approximately $45,000 to $55,000. Entry-level positions may start at around $36,000 per year, while experienced fuelers or those working in high-traffic airports can earn upwards of $60,000 or more.
Hourly Rate Breakdown:
Entry-Level: $17–$19/hour
Mid-Level: $20–$24/hour
Experienced (5+ years): $25–$30/hour
These figures may vary depending on location, employer size, union involvement, and shift differentials.
Factors That Influence Airline Fueler Salary
Several factors contribute to how much an airline fueler can make in 2025:
Geographic Location: Fuelers working in major airline hubs like Atlanta, Los Angeles, or Chicago tend to earn more due to cost of living and flight volume.
Experience: More years in the field translate to higher pay and better shift preferences.
Certifications: Holding relevant certifications (like a CDL or HazMat endorsement) can significantly boost earning potential.
Union Representation: Unionized roles often come with better pay scales, benefits, and job protections.
Shift Schedules: Overnight, weekend, or holiday shifts often come with added pay differentials.
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary (2025) |
|---|---|
| 0–2 Years (Entry) | $36,000–$42,000 |
| 3–5 Years (Mid-Level) | $43,000–$50,000 |
| 6+ Years (Senior) | $51,000–$65,000+ |
| Supervisors/Leads | $65,000–$75,000+ |
Those promoted to lead fueler or fuel operations supervisor roles can expect to make substantially more, sometimes over $80,000 depending on airport size and responsibilities.
Job Outlook for Airline Fuelers in 2025
The airline industry is rebounding in 2025, with travel numbers nearing or exceeding pre-pandemic levels. This resurgence is creating consistent demand for skilled ground support workers, including fuelers.
Growth Rate: Employment for airline fuelers is projected to grow 4–6% annually over the next five years.
High Turnover Areas: Regional and budget carriers often have faster turnover, leading to more frequent openings.
Automation Impact: While some fueling systems are becoming more automated, human oversight remains essential, preserving job security.
Required Certifications and Education
While a high school diploma is typically the minimum requirement, additional training can help fuelers advance:
Recommended Certifications:
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) – Often required for driving fuel trucks.
Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Endorsement – Increases job opportunities and pay.
OSHA Safety Training – Beneficial for both hiring and promotion.
Other Qualifications:
Physical fitness (due to the labor-intensive nature of the job)
Ability to work in extreme weather
Drug and background screenings
Benefits and Perks
Most airline fuelers working for major carriers or service providers receive a comprehensive benefits package:
Health Insurance (Medical, dental, vision)
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plans (401k with match)
Travel Perks (Discounted or free flights)
Shift Premiums
Overtime Pay
Union roles often include job protections, scheduled raises, and grievance procedures.
Final Thoughts
Becoming an airline fueler in 2025 offers a stable, well-paying opportunity for those looking to break into the aviation industry. With room for growth, strong job security, and increasing wages, it’s an ideal starting point for a long-term aviation career.
Whether you’re just entering the workforce or seeking a career change, the airline fueler position is a ground-level role with sky-high potential.