A commercial airline pilot’s job might seem stressful — long hours, global time zones, and enormous responsibility — but the paycheck more than makes up for it.

According to recent industry data, seasoned airline captains flying international routes can earn well over $300,000 per year, with some pilots at major airlines like Delta, United, and American reportedly crossing the $400,000 mark when including bonuses and overtime.

Even new pilots, once they’ve earned their certifications and logged sufficient hours, can start at $70,000 to $100,000, depending on the airline and aircraft.

These salaries reflect the high level of training and expertise required. It typically takes years of flying, both commercially and privately, before reaching a captain’s seat. And with the global pilot shortage, salaries and signing bonuses are climbing fast.

So next time you board a plane, remember — the person in the cockpit isn’t just flying the aircraft… they’re also flying high financially.