How much do American Airlines 787 pilots make?

Decoding the Cockpit: How Much Do American Airlines 787 Pilots Earn?

The question of how much an American Airlines pilot makes isn’t easily answered with a single number. Unlike many professions, pilot salaries are a complex tapestry woven from experience, seniority, aircraft type, and even contractual agreements. While specific figures for American Airlines’ 787 Dreamliner pilots aren’t publicly released, we can glean a reasonable estimate by examining publicly available data on similar roles within the airline.

The foundation of understanding pilot compensation lies in the distinction between First Officers (FOs) and Captains. First Officers are junior pilots working alongside a Captain, while Captains command the flight. Both positions, and their associated pay, are significantly impacted by aircraft type. Larger, more complex aircraft like the 787 generally command higher salaries due to the increased skill and responsibility involved.

We know that American Airlines First Officers starting on the Boeing 737 – a common training aircraft – can earn roughly $113 per hour, increasing to approximately $174 within their first two years. This provides a baseline understanding of the entry-level pay structure. However, the 787 is a significantly larger and more technologically advanced aircraft requiring additional training and certification. Therefore, First Officers on the 787 can expect a higher hourly rate than their 737 counterparts, even at the entry level.

The jump to Captain significantly increases earning potential. A Captain’s salary depends on factors such as seniority – accumulated time with the airline – and the specific aircraft flown. Seniority plays a crucial role, as it often dictates flight assignments, preferred routes, and, consequently, higher pay. Pilots with more seniority are often assigned more desirable routes, leading to increased flight hours and higher overall compensation. The 787, given its long-haul capabilities, will almost certainly lead to higher flight hour accumulation for a Captain compared to a smaller aircraft, further boosting their income.

Therefore, while a precise figure for a 787 pilot’s salary remains elusive due to the lack of public transparency from American Airlines, it’s safe to conclude that it substantially exceeds the entry-level 737 First Officer salary. A reasonable expectation would be significantly higher hourly rates for both First Officers and Captains on the 787, reflecting the increased responsibility, training, and demand for skilled pilots capable of operating this advanced aircraft. Ultimately, the actual salary will depend on a complex interplay of experience, seniority, and the airline’s internal compensation structure. It’s a rewarding career, but the financial compensation is a product of dedication, skill, and time invested within the airline.