As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for an Co-Pilot in the United States is $116,400 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $56.
However, an Co-Pilot's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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An Co-Pilot's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of an Co-Pilot's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Co-Pilot | $108,833 |
| Intermediate Level Co-Pilot | $110,094 |
| Senior Level Co-Pilot | $112,616 |
| Specialist Level Co-Pilot | $116,400 |
| Expert Level Co-Pilot | $121,101 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Co-Pilots. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Customer Service | 15% |
| Aviation | 5% |
| Counterintelligence | 5% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Security Clearance
|
$157,140 |
35%
|
|
Leadership
|
$155,976 |
34%
|
|
Planning
|
$143,172 |
23%
|
|
Counterintelligence
|
$135,024 |
16%
|
|
Attention to Detail
|
$133,860 |
15%
|
|
Commitment
|
$130,368 |
12%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Co-Pilots enter the field with a No Diploma degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for an Co-Pilot with a No Diploma is between $111,179 and $121,948).
Co-Pilot Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 14.0% |
| High School | 14.0% |
| Associates | 16.3% |
| Bachelors | 65.1% |
| Masters | 4.7% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how an Co-Pilot's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on January 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an Co-Pilot, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Head Helicopter Pilot | $165,800 | 42% |
| First Officer | $142,300 | 22% |
Salaries for an Co-Pilot can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $83,430 in 2023 to around $75,593 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Co-Pilot salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $83,430 |
| 2024 | $78,915 |
| 2025 | $75,593 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Co-Pilot and their salaries, click below for more details.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Co-Pilot job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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The estimated total pay range for a Co-Pilot at Delta Air Lines is between $105,600 and $145,500 per year, with a mid-salary of $123,400. This includes base salary and additional compensation, reflecting the competitive nature of pilot salaries in the industry.
UPS pilots earn a salary range based on experience and position. The minimum salary is $105,600, the mid-range salary is $123,400, and the maximum salary can reach $145,500. Compensation varies for captains and first officers, influenced by skills, experience, and flight hours logged.
Becoming a pilot typically takes 3 to 4 years, which includes obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Professional Flight. This education ensures consistent training and prepares you for a rewarding career, with salaries ranging from $105,600 to $145,500, depending on experience and qualifications. Starting your journey at a certified school is highly recommended.
A co-pilot can assist in landing a plane, especially in emergencies, but typically the captain is responsible for the final landing. Co-pilots undergo extensive training and are qualified to handle various situations, including landings. Their salary ranges from $105,600 to $145,500, reflecting their critical role in aviation safety and operations.
While established airline pilots can earn substantial salaries, the typical salary range for co-pilots is between $105,600 and $145,500 annually. Senior captains may earn around $450,000, but most co-pilots do not reach that level. Overall, a ten million dollar career total is possible, but it varies significantly based on experience and position.
Rank 3: First Officer. First Officers, known as co-pilots, wear three stripes and are second in command on flights. They assist the Flight Captain in preparing the aircraft, conducting inspections, and monitoring controls during the flight. The salary range for this position is between $105,600 and $145,500, with a mid-salary of $123,400.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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