Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers Salary in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD

Median annual salary $172,710 -23.8% vs national
Median hourly
10th percentile $86,660
90th percentile
Employed locally 3,230
National median $226,600

Compare Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers salary & buying power

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Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
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    In Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD, airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers typically earn a median annual salary of $172,710. This figure is notably higher than the local area's median household income of $89,273, indicating that this occupation offers substantial earning potential relative to other professions in the region. However, when compared nationally, where the median salary for similar positions stands at $226,600, Philadelphia-based professionals earn less, reflecting regional disparities in compensation within the industry.

    For entry-level airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers in the Philadelphia area, salaries begin around the 10th percentile mark of approximately $86,660. As these individuals gain experience, they can progress to earning closer to or above the median salary of $172,710. By reaching a higher level of expertise and responsibility within the profession, experienced workers may achieve earnings near the 75th percentile, which is about $218,890. The significant difference in salaries between entry-level and seasoned professionals is primarily driven by factors such as accumulated flight hours, additional certifications, leadership roles, and seniority, all contributing to higher compensation for more established pilots.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $86,660
    25th
    $102,630
    50th (median)
    $172,710
    75th
    $218,890

    Philadelphia economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.80% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $89,273 2023 • Census ACS
    Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers salary vs area income 193% Median Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers salary is 93% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers make per hour in Philadelphia?

    The median hourly wage for Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD is —, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make — or more per hour.

    Is Philadelphia above or below average for Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers salaries?

    The median Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers salary in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD is 23.8% below the national median of $226,600. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers in Philadelphia?

    Entry-level Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers (10th percentile) earn around $86,660 per year in Philadelphia, PA-NJ-DE-MD. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $102,630.