Flight Instructors

Flight instructors' earnings vary based on factors such as the size and type of employer, the type of aircraft used, and the amount of experience the instructor has. According to Salary.com, flight instructors earned median annual salaries of $114,095 in October 2024. Salaries ranged from less than $96,517 to $141,526 or more. Fifty percent of flight instructors earned between $104,894 and $128,453.

The National Association of Flight Instructors conducted a study in 2013, and found that nearly half of the instructors polled earned an hourly wage that fell approximately between $25 and $50 an hour ($52,000 to $104,000, if working full time). Their yearly income, though, depends on the number of students they have and the amount of time they are actually able to spend teaching. Many instructors take on second jobs to supplement their incomes.

The benefits a flight instructor receives depend on the employer. For example, those working at colleges or universities typically receive the same health insurance, paid vacation time, and retirement plans as other teachers there. At major airlines, instructors also typically receive health insurance, paid vacation and sick time, and retirement plans. In addition, they may get stock options through the company. Those working at small, nonapproved schools may get a minimum of health insurance and little or no retirement plan. Instructors who are self-employed must pay for their benefits.