What is the average monthly salary of a Delta Airline pilot?

Travel Destinations

By Kristy Tolley

Delta Airline Pilot Salary

Delta Airline is one of the largest airlines in the world, operating in over 300 destinations worldwide. Delta Airline pilots are highly skilled and well-trained professionals who ensure the safe and efficient operation of the airline’s fleet. One of the most important factors in attracting and retaining skilled pilots is the salary package offered by the company. The Delta Airline pilot salary is a matter of interest to many aspiring pilots and aviation enthusiasts.

Factors that Influence Delta Airline Pilot Salary

Several factors influence the salary of a Delta Airline pilot. One of the most significant factors is the pilot’s level of experience. Experienced pilots with several years of flying experience are likely to earn a higher salary than newly qualified pilots. Additionally, the type of aircraft flown by the pilot and the pilot’s rank within the company also affects the salary. The location of the pilot’s base is another factor that can affect the salary, with pilots based in high-cost cities typically earning more than those based in lower-cost cities. Bonuses, benefits, and other incentives also contribute to a pilot’s overall compensation package.

Average Monthly Salary of Delta Airline Pilots

According to Glassdoor, the average monthly salary of a Delta Airline pilot is around $8,700. The starting monthly salary for a Delta Airline pilot is around $5,200, while experienced pilots can earn up to $13,000 per month. The salary package also includes bonuses and benefits, such as healthcare, retirement plans, and travel perks. The salary of a Delta Airline pilot is highly competitive, reflecting the airline’s commitment to attracting and retaining highly skilled professionals.

Delta Airline Pilots Experience and Salary

Experience is a critical factor in determining the salary of Delta Airline pilots. Newly qualified pilots can expect to earn a starting salary of around $5,200 per month, while pilots with several years of experience can earn up to $13,000 per month. The salary package also includes bonuses and benefits, such as healthcare, retirement plans, and travel perks. Experienced pilots who have been with the company for a long time can also expect to receive additional incentives and rewards, such as stock options and profit-sharing plans.

Delta Airline Pilots Bonuses and Benefits

Delta Airline pilots receive a range of bonuses and benefits in addition to their base salary. These include healthcare, retirement plans, and travel perks. The airline also offers a profit-sharing plan that allows pilots to share in the company’s financial success. Additionally, pilots can earn bonuses based on their performance, such as on-time performance or safety record.

Delta Airline Pilots Salary Range

The salary range for Delta Airline pilots varies depending on several factors, such as experience level, aircraft type, and location. The starting salary for a Delta Airline pilot is around $5,200 per month, while experienced pilots can earn up to $13,000 per month. The salary package also includes bonuses and benefits, such as healthcare, retirement plans, and travel perks.

How to Increase Delta Airline Pilot Salary

Delta Airline pilots can increase their salary by gaining more experience, flying larger aircraft, and receiving promotions within the company. Additionally, pilots can earn bonuses based on their performance, such as on-time performance or safety record. The airline also offers additional incentives and rewards, such as stock options and profit-sharing plans, to experienced pilots who have been with the company for a long time.

Delta Airline Pilots Salary vs. Industry Average

The salary of a Delta Airline pilot is highly competitive compared to the industry average. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers was $147,220 as of May 2020. The average monthly salary for a Delta Airline pilot is around $8,700, which is significantly higher than the industry average.

Delta Airline Pilot Salary by Location

The location of a Delta Airline pilot’s base can affect their salary. Pilots based in high-cost cities, such as New York and Los Angeles, typically earn more than those based in lower-cost cities. According to Glassdoor, the average monthly salary for a Delta Airline pilot based in Atlanta is around $8,000, while pilots based in New York earn an average of $9,500 per month.

Challenges and Opportunities for Delta Airline Pilots

Delta Airline pilots face several challenges in their job, such as long hours, irregular schedules, and the need to remain alert and focused at all times. However, the job also offers many opportunities, such as the chance to travel to new and exciting destinations, work with a highly skilled team, and receive excellent compensation and benefits.

Conclusion: Delta Airline Pilot Salary Overview

The Delta Airline pilot salary is highly competitive, reflecting the airline’s commitment to attracting and retaining highly skilled professionals. The salary package includes bonuses and benefits, such as healthcare, retirement plans, and travel perks. Experienced pilots with several years of flying experience can earn up to $13,000 per month, while newly qualified pilots can expect to earn a starting salary of around $5,200 per month. The salary of a Delta Airline pilot varies depending on several factors, such as experience level, aircraft type, and location.

References: Delta Airline Pilot Salary Data Sources

  • Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2021). Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers. Retrieved from

  • Glassdoor. (n.d.). Delta Air Lines Pilot Salaries. Retrieved from

Photo of author

Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

Leave a Comment