How long does it take to become a commercial pilot?
Airline and commercial pilots earn a median of about $113,000 a year (about $54/hour) in the US — from around $60,000 entering the field to $240,000+ at the top. Becoming one usually takes about 2–4 years: Flight training + hours. Time depends on how fast you build hours — often two to four years to airline-ready.
Commercial pilot salary
| Entry level (10th percentile) | $60,000 |
| Median (typical) | $113,000 |
| Experienced (90th percentile) | $240,000+ |
| Median hourly | $54/hr |
Approximate US figures based on public wage data (BLS OEWS). Actual pay varies by employer, experience and location.
The path to becoming a commercial pilot
- 1Earn a private pilot license
- 2Add instrument and commercial ratings
- 3Build required flight hours (often as an instructor)
- 4Get an ATP certificate for airline jobs
What you need
- Commercial pilot certificate
- ATP certificate for airlines
- FAA medical
Airline pilot pay is high once you build hours, though training costs are significant.
Commercial pilot salary by state
Local pay varies with cost of living. See an estimate for your state:
Commercial pilot — frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a commercial pilot?
It usually takes about 2–4 years. The typical path: Earn a private pilot license; Add instrument and commercial ratings; Build required flight hours (often as an instructor); Get an ATP certificate for airline jobs.
How much do airline and commercial pilots make?
The median pay is about $113,000 a year ($54/hour). Most earn between roughly $60,000 and $240,000, depending on experience, employer and location. See the state pages for local estimates.
Do you need a degree to become a commercial pilot?
Entry requires: Commercial pilot certificate; ATP certificate for airlines; FAA medical. Airline pilot pay is high once you build hours, though training costs are significant.
Related careers
General information to help you plan a career — not career, legal or financial advice. Salary figures are estimates and training times are typical routes; both vary by state, program and individual. Check official sources and accredited programs before making decisions.