Do airlines hire military pilots?


Do airlines hire military pilots? At United, we're committed to our military pilots and those who serve. If you're a current or former military pilot who meets the qualifications of a First Officer with United Airlines, you can apply directly to United.


Do airlines prefer military pilots?

The military has long been one of the major pipelines for airline pilot talent. A significant number of airline pilots start their careers in the military, fly for 10-20 years, and then go into civil aviation. That's why the military is among several of the top pilot employers.


How often do military pilots fly?

According to figures provided to Air Force Magazine, pilot flying hours across all types of aircraft in the Active-duty force averaged 10.1 hours per month in fiscal 2021, down from 10.9 hours in 2020. Flying hours had averaged just 6.8 per month in 2019, down sharply from 10.7 in 2018.


Are most pilots ex military?

In the 1980s, roughly two-thirds of all airline pilots in the United States had some form of military experience, be it Air Force, Army, Navy, or National Guard. Today, it is estimated that about one-third of airline pilots have military backgrounds, a sharp reduction that can be attributed to multiple factors.


What do Delta pilots make?

The average Delta Airlines pilot earns $192,000 with top-earners making $526,000. American Airlines pilots earn an average salary of $118,000, with some pilots earning in excess of $700,000. Most importantly, pilot salaries continue to increase.