Airline Pilot Salary in Alabama
Based on 360+ workers in Alabama
Median Annual Salary (AL)
$136,990
$65.86/hr
vs National Average
$214,428
-36.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$109K – $177K
360 employed in Alabama
Airline pilot salary in Alabama averages $134,430 annually, with approximately 340 pilots currently employed across the state. This median falls about 11% below the national average, reflecting regional differences in aviation industry demand and cost structures. Salaries in the state range from $103,400 to $166,860 depending on individual circumstances and employer specifications.
Several factors influence airline pilot salary in Alabama, including seniority level, airline size, route assignments, and flight hours accumulated. Pilots working for major carriers typically earn more than those at regional airlines. Geographic location within Alabama, proximity to major hubs, and the specific aircraft type flown also contribute to salary variations. Additionally, experience, certifications, and market demand for pilots in the region play significant roles in compensation levels.
Salary Distribution — Airline Pilot in Alabama
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $108,890 |
| 25th percentile | $126,440 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $136,990 |
| 75th percentile | $165,340 |
| 90th percentile | $176,620 |
Top-Paying Industries for Airline Pilot (U.S.)
Which industries pay Airline Pilots the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Airline Pilots in Alabama tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation and Warehousing | $290,600 | 99K |
| Wholesale Trade | $164,960 | 40 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $139,590 | 3K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $130,170 | 600 |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $125,000 | 100 |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Airline Pilot in Alabama vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Alabama) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $116,380 |
| 2024 | $134,430 |
| 2025 | $136,990 |
| 2026 (projected) | $139,599 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Alabama Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $116,380 | $150,453 |
| 2024 | $134,430 | $151,018 |
| 2025 | $136,990 | $214,428 |
| 2026 (projected) | $139,599 | $218,511 |
Airline Pilot Salary by Experience Level in Alabama
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $126,440 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $136,990 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $165,340 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $176,620 |
Airline Pilot Salary in Other States
Related Airline Pilot Salaries in Alabama
How other high-demand occupations in Alabama compare to Airline Pilot ($136,990 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Airline Pilot | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Traffic Controller in AL | $78,590 | -42.6% | $37.78/hr |
| Construction Supervisor in AL | $64,120 | -53.2% | $30.83/hr |
| Plumber in AL | $58,670 | -57.2% | $28.21/hr |
| Electrician in AL | $55,690 | -59.3% | $26.77/hr |
| Automotive Service Technician in AL | $45,640 | -66.7% | $21.94/hr |
| Maintenance and Repair Worker in AL | $43,630 | -68.2% | $20.98/hr |
| Construction Laborer in AL | $36,900 | -73.1% | $17.74/hr |
| Computer Hardware Engineer in AL | $136,990 | +0.0% | $65.86/hr |
| Actuary in AL | $136,950 | -0.0% | $65.84/hr |
| Computer and Information Systems Manager in AL | $138,670 | +1.2% | $66.67/hr |
| Chemical Engineer in AL | $135,030 | -1.4% | $64.92/hr |
| Physicist in AL | $139,330 | +1.7% | $66.99/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do airline pilots make in Alabama?
- Airline pilots in Alabama earn a median salary of $134,430 per year, or $65 per hour. This is 11% below the national average for the profession, though salaries in the state range from $103,400 to $166,860 depending on experience and employer.
What is the salary range for pilots working in Alabama?
- Airline pilot salaries in Alabama range from a low of $103,400 to a high of $166,860 annually. The median falls at $134,430, which represents the typical earnings for pilots in the state.
Is the pilot salary in Alabama lower than the national average?
- Yes, Alabama's median airline pilot salary of $134,430 is approximately 11% lower than the national average for this profession. Despite this difference, the state still employs 340 airline pilots across various airlines and regions.
What hourly wage do airline pilots earn in Alabama?
- The median hourly wage for airline pilots in Alabama is $65 per hour, which equates to the annual median salary of $134,430. Hourly rates will vary based on an individual pilot's experience, airline, and specific flight assignments.