The salary of a pilot in Pakistan is influenced by factors such as license type, experience, aircraft fleet, and airline (commercial, charter, or PAF). This guide presents a breakdown of monthly pilot salaries across various categories—commercial pilot earnings, private/charter pilot income, flight instructor wages, and PAF pilot pay—allowing you to view distinct ranges based on role and experience level. Whether you’re beginning your journey as a first officer or striving for a captain position, you’ll discover realistic monthly salaries, benefits, and tips for career advancement in aviation.
Pilot Pay in Pakistan: Influencing Factors
Compensation is shaped by experience, type of aircraft, the airline or organization (e.g., PIA, private operators, charter), type of licenses (CPL/ATP), and flight hours accumulated. Additional benefits like flight allowances, insurance, housing, and travel perks can significantly enhance overall income.
2025 Salary Ranges by Role (Monthly)
Commercial Airline Pilot (CPL)
- Starting (FO): PKR 150,000–250,000
- Mid-level: PKR 300,000–500,000
- Senior Captain: PKR 600,000–900,000+ (international flights may offer higher pay)
Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)
- Entry (FO/short-haul): PKR 300,000–500,000
- Experienced Captain: PKR 600,000–1,000,000
- Senior Captain (long-haul): PKR 1,000,000–2,000,000+
Flight Instructor (PPL/CPL/ATP Training)
- Junior: PKR 80,000–150,000
- Experienced: PKR 200,000–350,000
- Senior/Chief Instructor: PKR 400,000–600,000
Private/Charter Pilot
- Employed roles: PKR 50,000–150,000 (varies based on employer and responsibilities)
PAF (Pakistan Air Force) Pilot
- Newly commissioned: PKR 60,000–80,000 (basic salary)
- Mid-career: PKR 150,000–300,000 (including allowances)
- Senior ranks: PKR 400,000–600,000+
Quick Comparison Table
| Pilot Type | Typical Monthly Salary (PKR) |
|---|---|
| Commercial FO → Captain | 150,000–900,000+ |
| ATP FO → Senior Captain | 300,000–2,000,000+ |
| Flight Instructor | 80,000–600,000 |
| Private/Charter Pilot | 50,000–150,000 |
| PAF Pilot (rank-based) | 60,000–600,000+ |
Common Benefits & Allowances
- Flight/sector allowances (usually higher for international/long-haul flights)
- Payments for overtime and night stops
- Health & life insurance, plus medical coverage
- Housing support or accommodation (depends on role/organization)
- Staff travel perks for the pilot and family
- Pension/retirement plans available through government or major airlines
Ways to Enhance Your Pilot Salary
- Upgrade licenses: CPL → ATP; obtain type ratings (e.g., A320, B737).
- Accumulate flight hours & seniority: A quicker path to captaincy and large fleet operations.
- Select aircraft & routes judiciously: Long-haul and international jobs typically offer better salaries.
- Incorporate instructing or checking: TRI/TRE roles can increase earnings and provide stability.
FAQs About Pilot Salary in Pakistan
Q1: What is the starting salary for a commercial pilot in Pakistan?
The typical range is PKR 150,000–250,000 per month for first officers, depending on the airline and aircraft.
Q2: How much does an ATP captain earn in Pakistan?
They earn approximately PKR 600,000–2,000,000+ monthly, with senior captains on long-haul routes often earning more.
Q3: What is the salary range for a PAF pilot?
New officers typically earn PKR 60,000–80,000, while senior ranks can receive between PKR 400,000–600,000+, along with additional benefits.
Q4: Do flight instructors earn well in Pakistan?
Yes, their earnings range from PKR 80,000–600,000 depending on experience, ratings, and the reputation of the flight school.
Conclusion
In 2025, the salary of a pilot in Pakistan is determined by their role, flight hours, aircraft type, and rank. Commercial and ATP captains top the salary charts, PAF pilots see salary increases based on rank, instructors earn more with experience, and private pilots have variable salaries based on their employer. Investing in better ratings, more hours, and long-haul fleets can rapidly accelerate your pilot salary in Pakistan, along with the associated benefits.