Pilot Compensation: Hourly or Salary?

The question of whether pilots are paid on an hourly basis or a fixed salary can be complex and varies widely based on the airline, union agreements, and the type of pilot. Understanding the nuances of pilot compensation is crucial for both pilots and companies seeking to hire them.

Hourly Billing for Airline Pilots

Most airlines pay their pilots on an hourly basis, but the intricacies of how 'hourly' is calculated can often be misunderstood. Pilots are often compensated for the entire period from the moment the plane pushes back from the gate until it reaches the destination gate, colloquially referred to as 'pushback to touchdown.'

However, aviation regulations impose strict limits. For instance, pilots cannot exceed 100 hours of flight time in a 28-day period and cannot accumulate more than 1,000 hours of flight time in a single year. The crucial point here is that 'flying' is only considered from the moment the parking brake is released. Any prep work, such as preflighting the aircraft, getting from the hotel to the airport, programming the flight computer, obtaining flight clearance on the radio, and verifying weather and destination details, does not count as 'flying' time.

Union Contracts and Guaranteed Hours

There are numerous scales of payment depending on the union and the specific contract. For example, my airline offers a guaranteed 65 hours per month, with an additional 1.5 hours for night flights considered critical. If a flight is chartered beyond the airline's affiliation, the pilot is paid at 1.5 times the regular rate. Special allowances include a 30.00 additional payment for night stops, and the cost of open breakfast is covered as part of the hotel contract, adding to the pilot's perks.

Compensation for Different Types of Pilots

The type of pilot often influences the compensation model. While many airline pilots are paid hourly, meeting the demanding schedules and regulated limits, corporate pilots are often salaried employees because their responsibilities may include non-flying duties. Freelance pilots, on the other hand, are typically paid by the day or job, providing flexibility but demanding adherence to specific contracts and conditions.

It's important to note that while most airline pilots ensure a steady income through hourly rates, there is variability based on union agreements and individual contracts. The compensation for corporate pilots can be quite different, as they are often paid a fixed salary with additional bonuses based on performance and company needs.

Conclusion

The phrase 'hourly or salary' for pilot compensation is a broad oversimplification. Pilots can be paid hourly, on a fixed salary, or by the day, depending on their role, the airline or company they work for, and their union agreements. Understanding these differences is key to both pilots and those hiring them, ensuring that the right person is compensated fairly for their services.

For more information on pilot compensation, options, and management, refer to the latest industry reports and consult with aviation unions and associations.